Legendary Wriddhiman Saha Bids Adieu to Cricket: Tributes Pour in from Dhawan, Pant, and More

Feb, 2 2025

Wriddhiman Saha Announces Retirement from Cricket

On February 1, 2025, the cricket world witnessed the end of an era as the seasoned Indian wicketkeeper-batter, Wriddhiman Saha, announced his retirement from all formats of cricket. This decision marked the culmination of a nearly two-decade-long career that saw numerous highs. Saha's final match was held at the historic Eden Gardens, where he played for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy Elite 2024-25 Group C encounter against Punjab. During the match, Saha was dismissed for a seven-ball duck by Gurnoor Brar, a moment that felt bitter-sweet for his vast fan base as they watched him walk back to the pavilion one last time.

Despite the personal disappointment of his final performance, the sense of achievement and contribution to his team wasn't tainted as Bengal went on to secure a notable victory by an innings and 13 runs over Punjab. This match was not merely a game but a testament to Saha's enduring influence and strength as a part of Bengal's cricketing tapestry. Throughout his career, he was known for his grit, resilience, and unmatched skills behind the wickets, which earned him the respect and admiration of teammates and opponents alike.

Tributes from the Cricket Fraternity

Following his retirement announcement, the cricket community erupted in heartfelt tributes. Shikhar Dhawan, a former Indian opener, took to social media to express his sentiments, lauding Saha as a "champion" and wishing him success in the next chapter of his life. Such warm wishes exemplified the camaraderie and respect Saha cultivated throughout his career. Another cricketing great, Irfan Pathan, chimed in to celebrate Saha's illustrious career, fondly referring to him as "udtaaaaaa Saha," a nod to his impeccable agility and skill as a wicketkeeper.

Cheteshwar Pujara, celebrated for his own contributions to Indian cricket, voiced his appreciation for Saha's invaluable role in India's cricketing history. Pujara praised Saha for his remarkable on-field performances and the enriching off-field moments they shared over the years. Current wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, who has often been considered Saha's successor in the Indian cricket team, expressed admiration for Saha's craft and skills, offering well-wishes for life beyond cricket.

Saha’s Reflective Farewell

As he prepared to step away from professional cricket, Saha shared a heartfelt message on X, reflecting on his cricketing journey. He fondly remembered setting foot on a cricket field for the first time in 1997, a moment charged with ambition and dreams. His journey from the local grounds to representing India on the international stage was one few can replicate and many admire. Saha humbly extended his gratitude toward the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for their unyielding support during his tenure.

Saha’s nostalgic message wasn't just about his personal milestones; it also acknowledged the web of people and institutions that have been intertwined in his journey. His gratitude extended to his state, district, local clubs, the university team, and even his school and college teams, whose foundations helped mold his career. Such public reflections emphasized the underlying roots that nurtured his evolution from a promising young talent to a celebrated Indian cricketer.

A Final Farewell

After sharing his plans with fans and the cricketing community, Saha's last walk to the crease was marked by an evocative guard of honor formed by his teammates. Such gestures highlighted the deep respect and love shared by his colleagues. Though his last innings did not go as planned, the cherishing memory of was not lost on his peers, who ensured his final outing was memorable. The sight of Saha stepping onto the pitch one last time evoked nostalgia and pride.

While fans cheered and emotions ran high, the guard of honor exemplified how Saha transcended beyond just statistics and records; it signified the end of a commitment—a lifelong love affair with cricket that inspired many. As the innings closed, so did a chapter in Indian cricket history, one marked by Wriddhiman Saha’s resilience, dedication, and mastery behind the stumps. While he may have stepped off the field, his legacy will continue to inspire budding cricketers and serve as a reminder of what true sportsmanship embodies.