This game has given me more than I could have ever imagined: Wriddhiman Saha

Bengal defeated Punjab by an innings and 13 runs in their last group game of the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy, but it was still not enough to qualify for the knockouts. On February 1 (Saturday), one of the finest wicketkeepers of all time, Wriddhiman Saha, also played his final competitive match. Saha had already announced that he would retire from the game at the end of Bengal’s season.

Saha, who featured in 40 Tests and nine ODIs, penned an emotional note after the game.

Full text of Saha’s letter:

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 honor of my life.

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.

Now it is time to begin a new chapter, dedicating myself to my family and friends, cherishing the moments I may have missed, and embracing life beyond the field.

I am eternally grateful to my parents, my beloved elder brother Anirban, and my extended family. Their sacrifices and unwavering belief in my dreams made this journey possible.

To my wife Romi, my daughter Anvi, my son Anvay, and my in-laws—thank you for being my pillar of strength. Your patience, sacrifices, and love kept me going through every challenge and success.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the BCCI, its presidents, secretaries, and all office bearers for their support throughout my career.

A sincere thank you to all my coaches, mentors, physios, trainers, analysts, teammates, logistics teams, masseurs, and every support staff member of the Indian Cricket Team, Bengal Cricket Team, Tripura Cricket Team, and all the clubs, districts, universities, and school teams I had the privilege of representing. Your faith in me and your constant encouragement have meant the world.

I am deeply thankful to the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) and the Tripura Cricket Association (TCA) for their trust and support throughout my career.

To my IPL family—KKR, CSK, Kings XI, SRH, and GT—thank you for believing in me and for giving me the opportunity to be a part of your journeys. The bonds and memories will stay with me forever.

A special mention to my childhood coach, Jayanta Bhowmick, who saw something in me long before I saw it in myself. Your guidance, both on and off the field, has been a blessing in my life.

To my friends, ground staff, net bowlers, dressing room attendants, fans, scorers, well-wishers, critics, and journalists—each of you played a role in my journey. Your support, encouragement, and even your criticism pushed me to be better, to work harder, and to never stop learning.

I would also like to express my deepest gratitude to our domestic staff, whose dedication and support behind the scenes have been invaluable. Your care and commitment have played a quiet yet significant role in my journey, and I truly appreciate it.

This game has given me more than I could have ever imagined. It has been my passion, my teacher, my identity. As I walk away from the field, I do so with immense gratitude, carrying memories that will last a lifetime.

Thank you, cricket. Thank you all.