India Wicketkeeper-Batter Wriddhiman Saha Retires From All Forms Of Cricket

India wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha retired from all forms of cricket on Saturday, bringing down the curtains on an illustrious career after playing his final Ranji Trophy group-stage match for Bengal against Punjab at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The 40-year-old Saha, who made his international debut in February 2010, has played 49 matches for India across formats -- 40 Tests and nine ODIs. He also represented Bengal and Tripura in domestic cricket, featuring in 142 First-Class and 116 List A matches.

"It has been 28 years since I first stepped onto a cricket field in 1997, and what a journey it has been! Representing my country, state, district, clubs, university, college, and school has been the greatest honour of my life," Saha said in an emotional post in 'X'.

Thank You, Cricket. Thank You everyone. pic.twitter.com/eSKyGQht4R

Reflecting on the impact of cricket on his life, Saha said, "Everything I am today, every achievement, every lesson learned- I owe it all to this wonderful game. Cricket has given me moments of immense joy, unforgettable victories, and invaluable experiences. It has also tested me, shaped me, and taught me resilience.

"Through the highs and the lows, the triumphs and the setbacks, this journey has made me who I am. But as all things must eventually come to an end, I have decided to retire from all forms of cricket." Saha's last international appearance came against New Zealand in 2021. After MS Dhoni's retirement in 2014, Saha had become a regular member of the Indian team, before losing his place to Rishabh Pant.

In his final Ranji Trophy appearance, Saha was dismissed for a duck, but his team, Bengal, defeated Punjab by an innings and 13 runs. After the match, he was lifted by