IF GIVEN A CHANCE I WILL PROVE EVEN IN THE ODIs AS WELL: SAHA

SPORTSLIBRO CRICKET– LATEST CRICKET NEWS

Wriddhiman Saha while on a chat with the Times Of India said that his now captain Virat Kohli has motivated hima lot and he needs to get back to the ODIs as well

Saha stated that we cannot take Sri Lanka lightly or for granted as because Sri Lanka has always given India a tough fight when ever this two giants have clashed with each other 

How prepared are you for the Sri Lanka series?

My preparation for the series took a hit because of the rains in Kolkata. I could only do indoor nets apart from playing in some club matches. So I have to work doubly hard now as we will be playing in an away series after a long time. Despite Sri Lanka’s recent performances, we cannot afford to take them lightly. With nothing to lose, they will be highly motivated to do well against us.

Was Kohli in touch with you during the break…

Yes, we spoke for a bit when he was in the West Indies. He wanted to know about my preparations. I am aware that I have become an important member of the side as Kohli has given me the freedom to alter the field. It is for this reason too that he relies on me and the bowler’s judgment for DRS.

How crucial was last season as you established yourself as the No. 1 ‘keeper in India in Tests?

It was a crucial season but then I never felt any pressure. Even when I got injured, I was confident of making a comeback. It was a result of the positive mindset which Kohli has imbibed in the team. But I am not dwelling in the past. All I can say is that I am more assured of my place in the Test side now.

You worked with Anil Kumble last year. What did you learn from his stint as coach?

Kumble was all about technical inputs. He told me to change my stance a bit and it helped 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 gave us inputs on where we could improve. 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.

What are your expectations from new coach Ravi Shastri?

Shastri has a very positive mindset and is a great motivator. He has good rapport with every member of the squad