Even when I play for my office, I play the role of skipper: Wriddhiman Saha

Regarded as a top wicketkeeper in the Test format for India, Wriddhiman Saha is all set to return to cricketing action as the Ranji Trophy begins. He left for New Delhi on Tuesday with the Bengal team as they’re slated to kick off their campaign against Services in the first round of the tournament.

This season would be of valuable use to Saha as he will look to attain match practice ahead of the international assignments approaching. He will keep wickets for India in the three Tests against Sri Lanka followed by the tour of South Africa. Ahead of the season opener, he spoke about Bengal’s chances of reclaiming the Ranji Trophy after 27 years, his relationship with captain Manoj Tiwary and sharing his international experience with the youngsters.

On playing the Ranji Trophy

The wicketkeeper is looking forward to playing for Bengal and seemed confident about clinching the title, this time around. “It will be a very good match practice for me before I take on Sri Lanka at home. More importantly, Bengal has been denied in the knock-out phase in the last couple of years. This time we have taken a silent oath that we must guide Bengal to the knock-out phase and then reach the finals to clinch the coveted Ranji Trophy after a span of 27 years,” Saha said.

On his role in the team

He also mentioned that he and skipper Tiwary had a discussion about the strategies they should be employing for the team. He also defined his role in the team.

“Normally a wicketkeeper stands in the best position on the field. He can observe the bowler as well as the other fielders’ movement. That is why it is often seen that captain is discussing with the wicketkeeper. Even when I play for my office, I play the role of skipper of the team due to this reason,” he added.

“Manoj also wants me to accompany him in each and every step during Ranji Trophy. I am also eager to share my experience of national side with Manoj and my teammates in the state team.” Saha further mentioned.