Wriddhiman Saha, the veteran wicketkeeper-batter, has expressed his desire to move past his past differences with the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) and contribute to the team’s success. Speaking at the Eden Gardens, Saha emphasized his focus on the present and his willingness to serve Bengal cricket in any capacity.
Saha, 39, parted ways with Bengal before the 2022-23 season following a dispute with CAB joint-secretary Debabrata Das. However, he has now indicated his readiness to reconcile and help the team achieve its goals. “I don’t think of the past or the future, but only stay in the present. And on that note, currently, all I am thinking about is about playing for Bengal. I have forgotten everything that happened in the past,” he said.
Saha also expressed his openness to coaching Bengal in the future. “I am open to help Bengal in any capacity possible. Since I am a cricketer, I would be better off helping Bengal in coaching instead of any administrative role,” he said.
CAB president Snehasish Ganguly welcomed Saha’s return, acknowledging his experience and value to the team. “Someone of Saha’s experience was necessary for Bengal to fill the gap left by Tiwary,” Ganguly said.
Saha’s return raises questions about the balance between grooming young wicketkeeper Abishek Porel and utilizing Saha’s experience. However, Saha assured that he would support Porel’s growth and ensure he doesn’t fall by the wayside. “Even before I left Bengal, I was grooming Abishek from the sidelines, and that will continue,” Saha said.
Saha also addressed concerns about the lack of Bengali cricketers in the Bengal team. He emphasized that merit should be the primary criteria for selection. “If you play well, you will get an opportunity, and that’s what has been happening in Bengal,” he said.
Despite a disappointing season last year, Saha remains optimistic about Bengal’s prospects. “I am sure the management will aim to give Abishek all the opportunities possible,” he said. “I can understand that some people may feel that the Bengal team should have more Bengalis, but I don’t feel that’s enough reason as talent and hard work should be the primary criteria.”
