Test Wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha Eyeing 2019 World Cup
Updated - 18 May 2019, 06:06 PM
After doing exceptionally well in Test cricket after Mahendra Singh Dhoni‘s retirement, Wriddhiman Saha is now harbouring hopes of donning the coloured jersey of the national team in order to play the 2019 World Cup.
Dhoni is still going strong in the 50-over format and recently silenced his critics with his all round display in the ODI series against Sri Lanka. However, it has not stopped Saha from ‘pushing harder’ to achieve his goal of playing in the biggest tournament of the game.
The Bengal wicketkeeper-batsman, who has made a seamless transition in the Test team, revealed that his wife ‘badly wants’ him to play in the next World Cup and he is trying to make it a reality.
“My wife badly wants me to play in the World Cup. She insists that I must push harder to achieve that. I am also trying, but ultimately the decision lies with the selectors,” Saha said. “My preparation is always aimed at bettering my performance. The rest depends on the selection committee. I don’t perform to just play ODIs.”
“Those who are saying (good things about my keeping) know better. Whatever I have learned, I am trying to execute,” he further added.
He further said that although Australia did well when they toured India in 2013 for the ODIs, they would find it tough to come out on top against the Men in Blue in the upcoming five-match series, scheduled to start from September 17.
“Beating India in India will always be tough. Australia has done well last time but I will put India ahead. India’s bench strength is very strong. The team is preparing for the 2019 World Cup. That’s why the rotation of players is happening. India has been performing well with all sets of players which is a good sign,” Saha opined.
The 32-year old concluded by giving his view on the team-management’s decision to give Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja an extended rest.
“Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav playing in place of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. They are being prepared to strengthen the bench. If the need be, they can chip in,” Saha concluded.
