Saha recently revealed that after India’s series defeat in South Africa, Dravid asked him to consider retiring from international cricket, as he was no longer a part of the team’s plans. The 37-year-old also mentioned BCCI president Sourav Ganguly’s assurances to him, wondering ‘why everything changed so fast’.
In the press conference after India beat West Indies by 17 runs in the third T20I on Sunday, the first question Dravid received was about Saha’s remarks. The batting legend quipped:
Dravid then said he didn’t want Saha to hear it from the media. The head coach added that he constantly has such chats with players, and doesn’t expect them to always take them happily. He said:
Dravid added that he and captain Rohit Sharma believe in open and two-way communication about selections, irrespective of how difficult things can get.
Saha has played 40 Tests for India, scoring 1353 runs at an average 29.41. Considered among the best glovemen in the world, he has also effected 92 catches and 12 stumpings.
He didn’t feature in India’s squad for the impending two-Test series against Sri Lanka, along with Ishant Sharma, Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara. Saha also pulled out of the 2021-22 Ranji Trophy due to personal reasons, and is now expected to return only for the Gujarat Titans at IPL 2022.
“Looking to groom a younger wicketkeeper” - Rahul Dravid
Explaining his side of the story further, Dravid elaborated that the team is looking to groom a younger wicketkeeper, presumably KS Bharat.
He hoped that in the future Saha would respect him for being upfront and honest with him. The head coach concluded by saying:
The India-Sri Lanka series kicks off on February 24.
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