The former India wicketkeeper-batter bids farewell to cricket, expressing gratitude for a remarkable journey from 1997 to 2024.
New Delhi, February 2 – Former India wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha has announced his retirement from all formats of cricket, bringing the curtains down on a remarkable 28-year career.
Saha played his final match for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 Elite Group C encounter against Punjab. However, his farewell outing ended in disappointment, as he was dismissed for a seven-ball duck by Gurnoor Brar. Despite Saha’s early dismissal, Bengal secured a convincing victory by an innings and 13 runs.
An Emotional Farewell
Before his last innings, Saha received a guard of honor from his Bengal teammates, marking the end of an era for the veteran cricketer.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Saha reminisced about his journey that began in 1997, calling it the greatest honor of his life to represent his country, state, district, clubs, university, college, and school.
“It has been 28 years since I first stepped onto a cricket field in 1997, and what a journey it has been! Representing my country, state, district, clubs, university, college, and school has been the greatest honor of my life. 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.”
Acknowledging BCCI, Coaches & Support Staff
Saha extended his heartfelt gratitude to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), as well as his coaches, mentors, teammates, and support staff.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the BCCI, its presidents, secretaries, and all office bearers for their support throughout my career. A sincere thank you to all my coaches, mentors, physios, trainers, analysts, and support staff from the Indian Cricket Team, Bengal Cricket Team, Tripura Cricket Team, and all other teams I had the privilege of representing.”
He also singled out his childhood coach, Jayanta Bhowmick, for spotting his talent early and guiding him throughout his journey.
“A special mention to my childhood coach, Jayanta Bhowmick, who saw something in me long before I saw it in myself. Your guidance, both on and off the field, has been a blessing in my life.”
A Legacy in Cricket
Saha made his first-class debut in 2007, going on to play 142 matches, scoring 7,169 runs at an average of 41.43 and a strike rate of 48.65, with 14 centuries and 44 fifties.
He had already retired from international cricket in November 2024. During his international career, Saha played 40 Tests for India, scoring 1,353 runs, including three centuries and six fifties. He also featured in five ODIs for India.
A Grateful Goodbye
Saha concluded his retirement post with a heartfelt message to his fans and the game:
“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.”
As one of India’s finest wicketkeeper-batters, Saha’s legacy will be remembered for his resilience, sportsmanship, and invaluable contributions to Indian cricket.