A Heartfelt Tribute to Wridhimaan Saha on His Retirement

November 5, 2024 – Kolkata

In a stirring ceremony held at Eden Gardens yesterday, Wridhimaan Saha, one of Indian cricket’s most celebrated wicketkeepers, bid adieu to international cricket, marking the end of an era. The 39-year-old's retirement was met with an outpouring of respect and admiration from fans, teammates, and cricketing legends alike.

Saha, who made his debut for India in 2010, has been an integral part of the national team, known for his exceptional wicketkeeping skills, calm demeanor, and occasional match-winning performances with the bat. His retirement brings to a close a distinguished career that spanned over a decade, with several memorable moments etched into Indian cricketing history.

Wriddhiman Saha will always be remembered for an unbeaten 115 runs from 55 balls in the final IPL Match versus KKR. He was the first player to score a century in an IPL final. 

Wriddhiman Saha’s innings of 117 runs against Australia came during the 2017 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, specifically in the second Test at Bangalore. This remarkable knock was a pivotal moment in the match, as it helped India recover from a tricky position.The innings came at a time when India was under pressure, having lost several top-order wickets. Saha’s 117 runs were invaluable in helping India post a competitive total in the first innings. His partnership with Ravichandran Ashwin (who contributed a valuable 38 runs) was crucial, with the two adding 50 runs for the eighth wicket.Saha’s century was particularly significant because it showcased his resilience, technique, and ability to adapt to difficult situations, a crucial trait for a wicketkeeper-batsman. His knock helped India to a commanding lead over Australia, and ultimately, India won the match by 75 runs, leveling the series 1-1.This century was one of the defining moments of Saha's career, as it confirmed his ability to play crucial, match-defining knocks under pressure, adding to his reputation as a reliable lower-order batsman and an outstanding wicketkeeper.

Saha’s calm and composed nature made him a favorite among both his peers and fans. Throughout his career, he was never one to chase the limelight, yet his professionalism and consistency earned him respect from all corners of the cricketing world.

For a man who started his career with the challenge of being India’s second-choice keeper behind MS Dhoni, Saha has more than proven his mettle. He went on to become one of the most reliable custodians of the wicket in world cricket, boasting one of the finest records behind the stumps. Saha’s technical proficiency, along with his ability to bat under pressure, ensured that his place in the team was secured even as younger players emerged.

The tribute also reflected on his commitment to Indian cricket despite facing personal challenges. Injuries had often derailed his career, but Saha’s perseverance, recovery, and strong performances each time he returned demonstrated his tenacity.

As he hangs up his gloves, Saha leaves behind a legacy built on hard work, discipline, and the belief that his job behind the stumps was to make the bowlers’ jobs easier, often at the expense of his own personal achievements.

In his farewell speech, Saha expressed his gratitude, thanking his family, coaches, teammates, and fans for their unwavering support. “It’s been an incredible journey. I feel lucky to have played for India, and I’ll always cherish these memories. Cricket has given me everything, and I will remain connected to this sport forever.”

Saha’s contribution to Indian cricket will never be forgotten. As he embarks on his next chapter, the cricket world bids him farewell, grateful for the years of excellence he provided behind the stumps.