Kolkata: India’s star wicket-keeper batsman Wriddhiman Saha today said that his wife wants to see him playing in the 2019 World Cup and he is working really hard to make her dream come true.
“My wife badly wants me to be part of the World Cup team or play in the World Cup,” Saha told reporters at the City of Joy during a music CD launch featuring a song written on him.
“She always insists I push harder (for a spot). I am trying myself. Ultimately, the decision lies with the selectors,” Wriddhi added.
Saha has played 28 Tests for the nation till now but only featured in 9 ODIs as former India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni still playing like a gem at the age of 36. The wicket-keeper batsman from Bengal played his last ODI back in 2014 against Sri Lanka at Hyderabad.
Wriddhiman has impressed everybody in the shorter format of the game too, as his brilliant century in the final of IPL 2014 against Kolkata Knight Riders was just a treat to watch.
“Everyone wants to play in every format. But every depends on the selectors. My preparation is to better myself all the time. The rest depends on selection committee. I don’t perform to just play ODIs,” Saha maintained.
On being asked whether 2018 would be India’s toughest as they will tour to South Africa and England, Saha said,”Yes it will be tough. But the challenge will be to keep the home and away momentum going. We have been winning away as well lately.”
India will play five ODIs and three T20I against the mighty Aussies. According to Wriddhiman the plan is to prepare for the 2019 World Cup in England.
“India’s bench strength is very strong. I think the team is preparing for the 2019 World Cup. That’s why this rotation of players. India have been performing well with all sets of players which is a good sign.”
R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have been rested for the Australia series with Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel and Yuzvendra Chahal getting the nod.
“Axar, Chahal, Kuldeep playing in place of Ashwin, Jadeja. They are being prepared to strengthen the bench. If the need be, they can chip in when needed,” Saha said.
Saha does not aspire to play County Cricket just yet likely teammates Cheteshwar Pujara and Ashwin.
“I don’t have aspirations to play county cricket just yet. I want to spend more time with family,” Saha said.
On the upcoming Aussie challenge, Saha said: “Beating India in India will always be tough. Australia have done well last time but I will put India ahead.”
Saha further added he doesn’t see any difference in the coaching pattern of Ravi Shastri and his predecessor Anil Kumble.
“I have not seen any change in coaching style. At this level, we don’t need to be taught how to bat or bowl, so I really don’t find a lot of difference between the two coaches.”