India wicket-keeper and Ranji trophy runners’ up player Wriddhiman Saha discussed the competition for a slot in the starting 11 with fellow India wicketkeeper, Rishab Pant. Saha was playing for the state of Bengal in the Ranji trophy 19-20 season as his team came second losing to Saurashtra in the final led by Jaydev Unadkat.
Saurashtra won their maiden title in Rajkot while Bengal had to return home empty-handed. Saha explains his thoughts on playing in the Ranji Trophy final for the first time and also shares why he believes his side lost the match.
“I got a good team environment once I joined. The wicket wasn’t as expected for the final but you can’t give excuses. You have to deliver come what may. We lost the toss which was vital. We were a little behind in everything. Even with runs, partnership. The food was right in front but somebody snatched it.,” Saha added.
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“When I didn’t play the Tests in New Zealand, I was practising with the red ball to keep myself prepared for the final if Bengal qualified; others were practising with the white ball for ODI series (against South Africa) and the IPL,” Saha said.
Saha was part of the Indian team that recently played two Tests in New Zealand. However, he failed to find a spot in the XI and had to see the team lose 0-2 from the bench. Rishabh Pant was chosen ahead of Saha and the Bengal keeper stated it doesn’t matter who plays as the ultimate goal is for India to win matches.
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“Normally, every player gets to know the squad before the match when the batting order is decided. I got to know after going there (New Zealand). It is not tough because you are still part of the team,” Saha said.
Saha ends with, “You have to go by team management decision based on the conditions but yes, inside, you feel that hopefully you will play since you played the last Test series. I keep the team in front and individual choices later. If team decides Rishabh will play, I will be fine with it as I want the team to win.”
