Wriddhiman Saha IPL Career: An Athletic Wicketkeeper and a Destructive Opening Batter

Wriddhiman Saha is one of the most skilled wicketkeepers in Indian cricket history. The veteran cricketer has represented India in all three formats of the game and has also played a crucial role for various franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL). In this article, we will delve into Saha’s IPL career, highlighting his journey, statistics, and achievements.

Early IPL Career

Saha started his IPL career with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2008. However, he failed to make a significant impact in his first season, scoring only 159 runs in 12 matches. He continued to be part of KKR until 2010, but was often overlooked due to the presence of Brendon McCullum, the Kiwi cricketer who was the first-ever IPL centurion. As a result, Saha did not get enough opportunities to prove himself.

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Saha at Chennai Super Kings

Saha’s fortunes changed when he was bought by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ahead of the 2011 season. The wicketkeeper-batsman became an integral part of the CSK squad, contributing with both bat and gloves. He was used as an opener by the franchise, and he made full use of the opportunity, scoring 68 runs off just 46 balls in his debut match. Saha continued to play some useful innings for CSK, including a crucial 115* against Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) in 2014, which helped his team post a massive total of 205.

Wriddhiman Saha IPL career skyrocketed with Punjab Kings

Saha was traded to Punjab Kings (previously known as Kings XI Punjab) in 2014. His stint with the franchise was a mixed one, as he was often shuffled in the batting order. However, Saha did manage to score his second IPL fifty in 2016, when he scored a quickfire 56 off 40 balls against Mumbai Indians (MI). He also took some stunning catches behind the stumps and proved to be a vital cog in Punjab Kings’ setup.

Saha Joins Sunrisers Hyderabad

Saha was bought by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in 2018, and he proved to be an excellent addition to the team. Saha’s outstanding glovework was on display throughout the tournament, and he also scored some useful runs for the team. In the 2018 season, he scored 216 runs in 11 matches at an average of 27.00, including a half-century against Kolkata Knight Riders. In 2020, Saha had his best season in the IPL, scoring 214 runs in just four matches at a staggering average of 71.33.

Saha’s Current Stint with Gujarat Titans

Saha was signed by Gujarat Titans ahead of the 2022 season. The franchise had acquired him to bring experience and stability to the team. Saha has been used as an opener by the Titans and has scored 317 runs in 11 matches in the ongoing season. His highest score of the season is 68, which came against Delhi Capitals.

Statistics Overview

Saha has been a consistent performer in the IPL, scoring 2427 runs in 144 matches at an average of 25.28. He has scored 11 half-centuries and one century in the tournament, with a high score of 115*. Saha has also been exceptional behind the stumps, taking 79 catches and effecting 22 stumpings.

Conclusion

Wriddhiman Saha has been a consistent performer in the IPL, with over 2400 runs and 22 catches to his name. His ability to keep wickets and score quick runs has made him a valuable asset for his respective franchises over the years. Saha’s journey in the IPL has been filled with highs and lows, but he has always managed to bounce back and deliver when it mattered the most.

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