Wriddhiman Saha caused an uproar in the Indian media when he opened up about his fall from the team and later revealed that a “prominent” reporter forced the goalkeeper to give an interview. Saha’s talk about these two topics was unexpected. The 37-year-old goalkeeper is usually quiet, and it’s against his nature to talk openly about what’s going on around him and reveal the smallest details on Twitter.
It all started when Saha was eliminated by the Indian Test team in the series against Sri Lanka. Saha has garnered support from all corners of the Indian cricket fraternity, be it because of his stand in the press box or because he revealed his relationship with coach Rahul Dravid and BCCI chairman Sourav Ganguly conversation. However, this episode always takes unexpected turns.
Former India wicketkeeper Syed Kirmani, who is weighing Saha’s departure from the team, was not convinced by the decision. Kirmani believes Saha is the best wicketkeeper in India at the moment, but the type of play he has and the fact that Saha is on the wrong side of the 30s has been a handicap behind his proven axe in India’s Test setup.
“I have a high opinion of this boy. He is currently the most skilled wicketkeeper in India in my opinion. But the selection committee, team management and others have other ideas. Unfortunately, he is very competitive, ‘Kirmani told SportsKeeda.
“That age factor has been around for a long time. I’m a victim of it too. They didn’t even let Sachin Tendulkar go, did they? I think a player matures from the age of 30; by then he’s in”
Saha decided to skip playing the Ranji Trophy this season for Bengal but Kirmani believes otherwise. The 72-year-old legend, who was part of India’s 1983 World Cup winning squad reckons this is not the right time for Saha to end his career and he should rather focus on making a comeback.
“Well, I don’t know exactly how and what they passed on to him, so I can’t comment on that. No matter what happens, Saha should have a sporty attitude and fight hard in the Ranji Trophy to force a comeback, ” Kirmani added.
“I think he should keep playing for as long as possible. I didn’t officially announce my retirement. I had to write to the BCCI to get my performance because a lot of charity games were being played at the time.”
Complete News Source : Hindustan Times
