Anil Kumble backs Wriddhiman Saha for WTC final selection after his recent performance in IPL 2023

Wriddhiman Saha, the skillful wicketkeeper-batsman for the Gujarat Titans, is savoring a highly fruitful season in the ongoing IPL 2023. As the opener of the defending champions, Saha has exhibited remarkable prowess by amassing an impressive total of 273 runs in 11 matches, showcasing an exceptional average of 27.30.

While Saha showcased his talent in the Test format following the departure of the legendary MS Dhoni, it is disheartening to note that he has yet to regain his position in the national team, despite the absence of Rishabh Pant. Surprisingly, the selectors have chosen KS Bharat over him for the highly anticipated World Test Championship final. Even when the dynamic KL Rahul faced an injury setback, the inexperienced Ishan Kishan was surprisingly favored over Saha for the prestigious WTC final. 

Kumble backs Saha

Anil Kumble, the esteemed former captain of the Indian cricket team, expressed his views with utmost candor regarding the decision made by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selectors to entrust KS Bharat with the pivotal role behind the stumps in the highly anticipated World Test Championship final (WTC 2023) set to unfold at the prestigious Kennington Oval in London, commencing on Wednesday, June 7, 2023. 

Sharing his thoughts on Jio Cinema’s Insider’s Feed show, Kumble said, “Look at Wriddhiman Saha behind the stumps, he’s been outstanding through this season, not just behind the stumps even in front of the stumps for Gujarat Titans. He’s been very consistent, he goes unnoticed behind the stumps but he’s one of India’s best wicket-keepers.”

The selectors missed a trick

Emphasizing his stance, Kumble firmly asserted that the seasoned 38-year-old, Wriddhiman Saha, deserved to secure a spot in the esteemed World Test Championship (WTC) lineup ahead of the inexperienced Ishan Kishan. With conviction, he expressed his belief that Saha should have been an integral part of the squad from the very beginning, usurping the position held by KS Bharat, who has temporarily assumed the wicketkeeping responsibilities in the absence of the talented Rishabh Pant.

Kumble further emphasized the invaluable experience and skill set that Wriddhiman Saha could have brought to the team, serving as a crucial asset in such a prestigious tournament. The decision to overlook his inclusion, in Kumble’s view, was a missed opportunity to bolster the team’s chances and benefit from Saha’s expertise behind the stumps. 

“I have a feeling that the selectors missed a trick for the World Test Championship (final), he’s someone who should be a part of that squad. I know KS Bharat is in the team, he’s done well whenever he’s got the opportunity but Wriddhi Saha is outstanding behind the stumps and he’s done exceptionally well whenever the opportunity has come his way even in front of the stumps with his batting.”, Kumble further explained. 

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