Syed Kirmani

Shubro Mukherjee ∙ 11 Feb 2022

Former Indian legend links politics to Wriddhiman Saha's sacking

With India scheduled to play against Sri Lanka in a two-match Test series, starting February 25, the hosts have many things to ponder upon. After Virat Kohli's resignation, the selectors are yet to announce India's next Test captain. Tough calls are likely to be made as the recent performance of certain players put a question mark over their red-ball future for the national side. The latest report of TOI has indicated the axing of a few players as the selectors are not keen to give them another opportunity in the upcoming home series. While Ishant Sharma and Wriddhiman Saha might have played their last Test for India, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane will be closely observed in the nearing Ranji season. As for Ishant and Saha, the duo has already opted out of their respective states' Ranji Trophy squad, hinting that the team management has decided to move ahead of them. Former India wicket-keeper Syed Kirmani praised Saha for his services to Indian cricket. However, he gave a controversial statement, blaming team politics for Saha's axing. "No doubt, Wriddhi is still the best wicketkeeper. But Rishabh Pant is getting chances for his aggressive batting. Even at 37, Wriddhi is still the best wicketkeeper. He should not get upset. Dinesh Karthik and Parthiv Patel were also replaced in the same fashion," Kirmani told Mid-Day. "You did a splendid job for India and never bowed down in these years, which is commendable. You are dropped because you did not belong to any particular group, you are a victim of politics. I will remember you as a very fine wicketkeeper," he added. Unfortunately for Saha, he made his debut under the Dhoni-era. For the most part of his career, he remained out of the reckoning. After Dhoni's Test retirement, Saha became a vital part of the team from 2014-18. Then arrived Rishabh Pant as the youngster's batting prowess prompted the team management to pick him over Saha. The 37-year-old gloveman has played 40 Test matches for India, scoring 1353 runs at an average of 29.41.