Former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha has come to terms with his departure from the national team, acknowledging that his exclusion in 2022 was not an act of “injustice.” Currently participating in his final match at Eden Gardens for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy against Punjab, Saha reflected on his international career and the circumstances surrounding his eventual removal from the Indian squad.

Saha, recognized as one of India's premier wicketkeepers, saw his international tenure conclude in 2022 when the then captain-coach duo of Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid chose KS Bharat as the backup for Rishabh Pant. His omission from the Indian team for the 2022 home series against Sri Lanka resulted in a rare display of public frustration, as he had disclosed the discussions he had with Dravid prior to his exclusion.

Nevertheless, the 40-year-old has since accepted the decision without harbouring any bitterness.

"I wouldn't label it as injustice. That would be self-serving. Perhaps it wasn't solely one person's decision. Maybe I fell short in my capabilities or did not meet expectations, leading to their choice," Saha stated in Kolkata.

“If I had performed better, this situation might have been different. I do not dwell on it; instead, I focus on the positives that come my way.”

Saha still backs his fitness

Saha, although no longer part of India's plans, maintains a strong belief in his fitness and capabilities. He asserts that he could have made a significant contribution had he been afforded the opportunity.

"If I were part of the team, I would have provided valuable catches or played impactful innings. I have given my utmost for Bengal. In slip fielding, I have not dropped a single catch. I have relished every moment of it," he stated. Throughout his career, Saha participated in 40 Test matches and nine One Day Internationals, establishing himself as a reliable wicketkeeper in the longest format of the game.

In November, Saha made his retirement official through a post on social media, a decision he had been considering for some time. "I intended to retire last season. However, due to Dadi (Sourav Ganguly) and my wife Romi encouraging me, I postponed it to this season. Otherwise, I would have already retired," he disclosed.

Read Also: Virat Kohli Reflects on 2013 Clash with Gambhir: 'People Know Me for Stopping a Fight'