Published: Jul 22, 2017, 12:21 PM (IST)
Edited: Jul 22, 2017, 12:22 PM (IST)
India gears up for the 3-Test series in Sri Lanka and it’s time for Wriddhiman Saha to take his spot behind the stumps. Post MS Dhoni’s retirement from Test cricket, Saha has emerged as one of the vital cogs of the national side. Not only he is regarded as India’s best wicketkeeper but also provides crucial runs in the team’s cause. The 32-year-old spoke about former coach Anil Kumble’s style and also how he has benefitted as a cricketer from Virat Kohli’s captaincy. Saha reckons at this level a coach isn’t a teacher, who would guide you with the basics. ALSO READ: Ravi Shastri is a very positive coach, says Wriddhiman Saha
“Kumble was all about technical inputs. He told me to change my stance a bit and it helped me immensely. At this level, the coach cannot teach you everything. But then, his role becomes important from the outside. Often, the players would react in the heat of the moment and might not be able to execute the plans. So Kumble used to analyse our mistakes and give us inputs on where we could improve,” said Saha about the former coach in an interview with Times of India.
The Kohli-Kumble controversy has found its way to headlines for almost 2 months. Kumble was often termed ‘demanding’ and ‘headmaster-like’. Saha dismissed the notions.
“He was quite frank about his views and I never felt that the dressing room atmosphere was tense under him. We shared a very open relationship,” added Saha, who is excited to work under new coach Ravi Shastri.
“Shastri has a very positive mindset and is a great motivator. He shares a good rapport with every member of the squad and that helps in improving the dressing room atmosphere. This also encourages the players to give their best. It will be fun to work with him,” said Saha.
Sri Lanka tour and Kohli’s backing
Saha’s preparation for the Sri Lanka series took a hit because of the rains in Kolkata and most of his training was restricted to indoor. He played in Sri Lanka in 2015 and came up with crucial contributions. Kohli had called the stumper from West Indies to check on his preparation for Sri Lanka Test series.
The Indian captain has backed the Bengal cricketer immensely and Saha spoke highly of confidence Kohli has bestowed upon him.
“I am aware that I have become an important member of the side as Kohli has given me the freedom to alter the field since I have the best view. It is for this reason too that he relies on me and the bowler’s judgment for DRS,” added Saha. “He also gives me confidence when I go to bat by allowing me to play in my own style. So in a way, I am playing with more freedom under Kohli. Kohli’s aggressive leadership has also ensured that the players are always highly motivated to perform.”
India are currently playing a warm-up match against Sri Lanka Board President’s XI and the first Test starts at Galle on July 26.
