Shikhar Dhawan, Rishabh Pant, Irfan Pathan, and Cheteshwar Pujara honor Saha’s illustrious career, recalling his contributions to Indian cricket.
New Delhi, February 2 – Former and current Indian cricketers, including Shikhar Dhawan, Rishabh Pant, Irfan Pathan, and Cheteshwar Pujara, paid heartfelt tributes to Wriddhiman Saha as the veteran wicketkeeper-batter announced his retirement from all formats of cricket.
Saha’s career came to an emotional close as he played his final match for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy Elite 2024-25 Group C encounter against Punjab. Though his last outing ended in disappointment with a seven-ball duck, Bengal secured a dominant innings and 13-run victory.
Shikhar Dhawan: “You’ll Always Be a Champion”
Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan took to X (formerly Twitter) to wish Saha well for his post-cricket life.
“From sharing dressing rooms to seeing you pull off those insane stumpings, what a journey you’ve had, bro! Wishing you all the success and happiness in this new phase of life. You’ll always be a champion,” Dhawan wrote.
Irfan Pathan: “Udtaaaaaa Saha”
Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan lauded Saha’s wicketkeeping prowess, calling him one of the finest India had in Test cricket.
“Congratulations @Wriddhipops on your career. Your wicket-keeping skills were the best we had in Test cricket. Will miss calling it ‘udtaaaaaa Saha.’ I’m sure you will keep flying high in your second innings, buddy. Good luck!” Pathan tweeted.
Cheteshwar Pujara: “Your Contribution Is Invaluable”
Cheteshwar Pujara, one of Saha’s long-time teammates in the Indian Test setup, praised his immense contributions to Indian cricket.
“Congratulations on an incredible career @Wriddhipops! Your contribution to Indian cricket has been invaluable. It has been a pleasure spending time with you on and off the field! Best wishes for the journey ahead,” Pujara wrote.
Rishabh Pant: “I’ve Always Admired Your Craft”
Current Indian wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant expressed admiration for Saha’s keeping skills and technique, sharing a picture of them together.
“As a fellow keeper, I have always admired your skills and your craft. Wishing you all the success and happiness in your next chapter @Wriddhipops bhaiya,” Pant wrote on X.
An Emotional Farewell
A day before his final innings, Saha received a guard of honor from his Bengal teammates, marking the end of a 28-year-long journey in cricket.
In his farewell message on X, Saha reminisced about his first steps on a cricket field in 1997, calling it the greatest honor of his life to represent India, Bengal, Tripura, and various clubs, districts, and universities.
“Everything I am today, every achievement, every lesson learned—I owe it all to this wonderful game. Now, it is time to begin a new chapter, dedicating myself to my family and friends, cherishing the moments I may have missed, and embracing life beyond the field.”
A Legacy to Remember
Saha made his first-class debut in 2007 and went on to play 142 matches, amassing 7,169 runs at an average of 41.43, including 14 centuries and 44 fifties.
He had already announced his international retirement in November 2024. In his 40-Test career, he scored 1,353 runs, including three centuries and six fifties, while also playing five ODIs for India.
A Grateful Goodbye
Saha thanked BCCI, his coaches, teammates, and support staff, expressing special gratitude to his childhood coach, Jayanta Bhowmick for shaping his career.
“This game has given me more than I could have ever imagined. It has been my passion, my teacher, my identity. As I walk away from the field, I do so with immense gratitude, carrying memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you, cricket. Thank you all.”
Final Thoughts
As one of India’s finest wicketkeepers, Saha’s resilience, dedication, and contributions will be remembered. While he steps away from the field, his legacy in Indian cricket remains intact.