Wriddhiman Saha responds to BCCI’s decision on Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer: ‘Forcefully, you can’t…’

Wriddhiman Saha on BCCI’s Exclusion of Iyer and Kishan: A Player’s Dilemma in Cricket Choices

In the aftermath of the BCCI’s decision to exclude Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan from the annual retainers list for the 2023-24 season, veteran Indian wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha shared his perspective, providing insights into the complexities surrounding player decisions and the governing body’s responses.

The context for Saha’s statement is set against BCCI’s move to leave out Iyer and Kishan from the retainer list, prompting questions about the criteria and considerations involved. This decision follows Ishan Kishan’s reported break from cricket, citing mental health fatigue during the South Africa tour. Despite this, Kishan returned to action in the DY Patil T20 tournament earlier this week.

Shreyas Iyer’s situation introduces an element of uncertainty. Dropped from the Indian Test side during the home series against England, there was confusion surrounding Iyer’s fitness status. However, the middle-order batsman has made himself available for selection in the upcoming Ranji Trophy semifinal match scheduled to begin on Saturday.

Saha’s use of the term “forcefully” adds complexity, hinting at the challenges faced when trying to influence a player’s decision regarding domestic cricket involvement. This statement reflects the ongoing dialogue and dynamics between players, cricket boards, and the evolving understanding of player well-being.

The focal point of the board’s decision was encapsulated in the statement: “The BCCI has recommended that all athletes give precedence to participating in domestic cricket during periods when they are not representing the national team.”

While refraining from expressing judgment on decisions made by Kishan and Iyer, Saha underscored the significance of first-class cricket as the foundation for players to thrive. He acknowledged that decisions lie with the BCCI and the individual players, emphasizing the limited capacity to influence such determinations.

Wriddhiman Saha, last representing India in December 2021, continues to actively participate in domestic cricket, showcasing his commitment to the game by featuring for Tripura. Expressing his perspective on the importance of all matches, including club and office matches, Saha emphasized the equal significance he attaches to every game.

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He stressed that such an approach benefits players in their careers and contributes to the overall improvement of Indian cricket. Saha specifically highlighted the exemplary performance of Sarfaraz Khan, underscoring the value of consistent performances in domestic cricket.

Turning his attention to emerging talent, Saha praised Dhruv Jurel for his exceptional performance in the Ranchi Test match, contributing significantly to India’s victory with a remarkable knock of 90 runs. Despite not witnessing Jurel in domestic cricket, Saha acknowledged the young cricketer’s outstanding batting skills, citing his crucial role in securing a Test series win against England.

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In reflection on the exclusion of Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer from the BCCI central contract, Saha maintained a neutral stance, stating, “That is BCCI’s decision and the personal decision of concerned players. Forcefully, you can’t do anything.” This statement encapsulates the inherent autonomy of players and the limited influence on such decisions.

On Thursday, veteran Indian wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha weighed in on the exclusion of Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer from the annual player retainership list for the 2023-24 season. Saha emphasized the importance of a cricketer willingly participating in domestic cricket, stating that it serves as the foundation for success, and every player should recognize its value.

Expressing his perspective on the BCCI’s decision, Saha acknowledged that forcefully altering a player’s decision is not feasible, recognizing it as a personal choice. Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer, who were recently part of the Indian side, found themselves omitted from the annual contracts, with the BCCI clarifying that they were not considered for the contracts in the latest recommendations.

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Saha, drawing from his own approach to the game, highlighted the significance of treating every match with equal importance. Regardless of the level, whether club matches or office matches, Saha stressed that maintaining this mindset is crucial for a player’s career growth. He urged all players to adopt this perspective, emphasizing that it not only benefits individual careers but also contributes to the overall betterment of Indian cricket.

This statement by Saha encapsulates the broader idea that a player’s commitment to and recognition of the importance of various matches, coupled with personal choices, play a pivotal role in shaping their cricketing journey.

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In emphasizing the perpetual significance of domestic cricket, Wriddhiman Saha pointed to Sarfaraz Khan’s consistent run-scoring over the last 4-5 years, highlighting his impactful contributions to the game.

Meanwhile, Saha lavished praise on the emerging talent Dhruv Jurel, describing his batting as ‘outstanding.’ Jurel’s impressive performances, including a gritty 46 on Test debut and subsequent scores of 90 and 39 in the fourth Test at Ranchi, earned him the player of the