End of an Era: Wriddhiman Saha Retires from Cricket

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha has announced his retirement from all formats of cricket. The 40-year-old cricketer, known for his exceptional wicketkeeping skills and resilience, played his final match for Bengal against Punjab in the Ranji Trophy Elite 2024-25 Group C encounter. Saha, who had earlier retired from international cricket in November 2024, expressed his gratitude towards his family, coaches, and cricketing associations for their unwavering support throughout his career.

Key Highlights of Wriddhiman Saha’s Career

Retirement Announcement

• Saha announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on February 3, 2025.
• He played his last match for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy 2024-25 season against Punjab.
• The Bengal team gave him a guard of honor in his final innings.

Domestic and International Career

• Made his first-class debut in 2007.
• Played 142 first-class matches, scoring 7,169 runs at an average of 41.43 with 14 centuries and 44 fifties.
• Represented India in 40 Test matches, scoring 1,353 runs, including three centuries and six half-centuries.
• Played five ODIs for India.
• Known for his remarkable wicketkeeping skills, replacing MS Dhoni in Test cricket after Dhoni’s retirement in 2014.

Memorable Achievements

• First Indian to score a century in the IPL final (2014, for Kings XI Punjab).
• A key part of India’s Test squad, especially for overseas tours.
• Contributed significantly to Bengal’s domestic cricket success.
• Played in the IPL for teams like Kings XI Punjab, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Gujarat Titans.

Farewell Message

• Saha thanked the BCCI, Cricket Association of Bengal, Tripura Cricket Association, and his mentors.
• Special mention to his childhood coach Jayanta Bhowmick for his early guidance.
• Expressed gratitude to his family, teammates, critics, and fans for shaping his journey.
• Plans to dedicate more time to his family and personal life post-retirement.