Veteran Indian wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket at the conclusion of the current Ranji Trophy season. The 40-year-old cricketer shared his decision in an emotional statement, expressing gratitude for a “cherished journey in cricket” and affirming his commitment to represent Bengal one last time in red-ball cricket.
“After a cherished journey in cricket, this season will be my last. I am honoured to represent Bengal one final time, playing only in the Ranji Trophy before I retire,” Saha said. Known for his exceptional wicketkeeping skills and his quiet yet impactful presence on the field, Saha has built a 15-year legacy that has resonated with fans and teammates alike.
Over the years, Saha carved out a niche as one of India’s most reliable wicketkeepers, especially in Test cricket. Since making his international debut in 2010, he has played 40 Test matches, displaying remarkable technical skill behind the stumps. Additionally, Saha featured in nine T20 Internationals, though it was the Indian Premier League (IPL) where he often caught the public eye.
Across 170 IPL appearances, Saha played for teams like the Kolkata Knight Riders, Punjab Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Gujarat Titans. One of his most memorable IPL performances came in the 2014 final when he scored a century for Kings XI Punjab, despite their loss to Kolkata.
In 2022, Saha’s career saw a shift as he joined the Gujarat Titans, contributing to their maiden IPL title win. Now, with his final season approaching, Saha has hinted that his time in the IPL may be drawing to a close as well. Having skipped registration for the 2025 auction, he seems poised to step back from the league that showcased his limited-overs skills to a broader audience.
Saha’s return to Bengal this season followed a brief and somewhat controversial stint with Tripura, sparked by a dispute in 2022 with the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB). After being criticized by a senior CAB official for his commitment, Saha chose to step away, leaving the team’s WhatsApp group. Despite a reconciliation attempt by then-CAB chief Avishek Dalmiya, Saha’s discomfort with the association remained until a recent conversation with former BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly helped smooth his path back to Bengal for a final season.
Despite a modest start this Ranji Trophy season, Saha remains focused on ending his career on a high note. In a message to fans and colleagues, he said, “Thank you to everyone who has been part of this incredible ride, your support has meant the world. Let’s make this season one to remember.”
Saha’s career began with his First-Class debut for Bengal in 2007, and he quickly became a mainstay in India’s red-ball squad, valued for his calm demeanor and skill behind the stumps. His exit from the national team in 2022, following a conversation with head coach Rahul Dravid about the selection of younger players, marked the end of an era for Indian cricket.
With widespread admiration from fans and fellow players alike, Saha’s final season promises to be a fitting farewell for one of India’s most respected wicketkeepers. As Bengal supporters gather to honour his distinguished career, Saha’s retirement will undoubtedly mark the close of a memorable chapter in Indian cricket.
