Veteran wicketkeeper-batter Wriddhiman Saha has made a much-anticipated return to Bengal's cricket team after a two-year stint with Tripura. The 39-year-old cricketer, who played for Bengal from 2007 to 2022, has expressed his eagerness to contribute to the team's success across all formats in the upcoming domestic season. Saha's return is seen as a significant boost for Bengal, particularly as the team aims to rebuild after the recent retirement of captain Manoj Tiwary.

Speaking at a press conference at Eden Gardens, Saha made it clear that he has moved past the controversies that led to his departure from Bengal before the 2022-23 season. "I don't think of the past or the future, but only stay in the present. And on that note, currently, all I am thinking about is playing for Bengal. I have forgotten everything that happened in the past," Saha said. He also hinted at a possible coaching role in the future, saying, "Since I am a cricketer, I would be better off helping Bengal in coaching instead of any administrative role."

Saha's exit from Bengal two years ago followed a public spat with Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) joint-secretary Debabrata Das, who had questioned Saha's commitment to the team. Despite the fallout, Saha has now reconciled with the CAB, and his return has been warmly welcomed by CAB president Snehasish Ganguly.

"It is a matter of great joy to welcome Wriddhi back in Bengal. He has served us a lot in the past. I hope his return will strengthen the team, and Bengal will aim for a better performance in the upcoming season. I wish Wriddi the very best for the forthcoming season," Ganguly said.

Saha, who has been left out of India's plans for the future, remains focused on his domestic career and is determined to continue playing at the highest level. "Age is just a number for me. As long as I am motivated to play this game, I will continue playing. I have no plans of retirement as of now. As and when I think of quitting the game, I will retire from all formats of the game," Saha stated.

The return of Saha also brings an interesting dynamic to Bengal's squad, particularly in the wicket-keeping department. With young talent Abishek Porel already making a name for himself, Saha acknowledged the challenge of balancing experience with grooming future stars. "Even before I left Bengal, I was grooming Abishek from the sidelines, and that will continue. I will always be a team man, and I am ready to do what is best for the team and also, help prolong the cricketing career of a talented player like Abishek," Saha said.

Bengal has been on the cusp of Ranji Trophy glory for the last few years, reaching the final twice but falling short on both occasions. With Saha's return, the team will be looking to leverage his experience and leadership as they aim for success in the upcoming season. Despite concerns from some quarters about the lack of Bengali players in the team, Saha emphasized that merit should be the primary criterion for selection.

"When you get selected for India, there is no quota of having a certain number of boys from different zones. If you play well, you will get an opportunity, and that's what has been happening in Bengal. Even if some of our players have originated from outside Bengal, it does not make them any less part of the Bengal team," Saha remarked.

As Bengal gears up for the new season, all eyes will be on Saha and his ability to lead the team both on and off the field, as they aim to finally lift the Ranji Trophy and achieve success across formats.