Wriddhiman Saha to join Tripura cricket team after leaving Bengal

Wriddhiman Saha has been announced as a Tripura Cricket Team player for next season. The 38-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, who played 40 Test matches for India, left Bengal after a 15-year stint following a public spat with joint secretary Debabrata ‘Debu’ Das. The debacle began in February when Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) joint-secretary Debabrata Das issued a statement accusing Saha of giving “all sorts of excuses” to “skip” Ranji Trophy matches. It didn’t go down well with Saha, who sought an apology that wasn’t forthcoming. In May, Saha was picked in Bengal’s squad for the Ranji Trophy knockouts, but he pulled out, saying his permission wasn’t sought before naming him in the team.

Saha is believed to have spoken to the CAB officials, who promised him Das’ statement wasn’t a reflection of CAB’s stance. However, Saha reiterated his stance and said he wanted a no-objection certificate (NOC) to leave the state if the dispute could not be resolved. With the matter being unresolved for two months, Saha finally decided to obtain a NOC.

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While announcing Saha’s acquisition, Tripura secretary Kishore Das said, “We have had talks with Saha, and he has agreed to play for the state. He will also act as a mentor for the senior team to motivate the players. Players would be immensely beneficial if Saha joined the team. Considering his vast experience in international cricket and the domestic circuit, it is not yet finalised whether he will be made the team captain. It will be decided later.”

(With inputs from PTI)