TOI Sports Desk
Saha’s switch to Tripura came after an official accused him of making excuses to skip Ranji Trophy matches in 2022.This dispute led him to obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) to play for Tripura.
“After playing for almost 15 years with the West Bengal cricket team, I played for the Tripura cricket team for two years. Now I have returned to play for the West Bengal cricket team… As a wicket-keeper batsman, I will try my best to help the team win major tournaments,” Saha told ANI.
He emphasized his current focus on the preparatory camp and the upcoming Ranji Trophy tournaments. Saha also noted that he will assess his physical condition before deciding on participating in T20 and one-day games.
When asked about the possibility of taking over the captaincy from the recently retired Manoj Tiwary, Saha praised Tiwary’s batting skills and emphasized his role as a wicketkeeper-batsman.
“I will try my best to bring forward junior players,” Saha added, downplaying the likelihood of reclaiming a backup wicketkeeper-batter spot for Team India.
CAB president Snehasish Ganguly welcomed Saha’s return and commended his impressive record of 40 Tests for India.
“When Saha is there, he always gives his 200 percent. We are very focused on domestic cricket. We have a very good side this time,” Ganguly said.
Saha last played for India in 2021, scoring 1,353 runs in 40 Tests, which includes three centuries and six fifties. He has also represented India in five ODIs.
Saha’s return to Bengal is seen as a significant boost to the team’s prospects in the upcoming domestic season, and his experience is expected to be a valuable asset to the team.