HYDERABAD: When Parthiv Patel made a comeback to the Indian team after eight years and proved doubters wrong against England late last year, there was skepticism over the future of Wriddhiman Saha. But recalled after recovering from a thigh strain, Saha strengthened his position with his second Test century on Friday.
The 32-year-old has had a quiet international career but shown glimpses of his batting talent. His first century came in the West Indies. The soft-spoken cricketer, however, rates two unbeaten fifties in the same Test against New Zealand last year as better contributions to the team. “Those innings are better since we needed the partnership and runs.”
The Bengal stumper was all praise for his competitor. “Parthiv has performed whenever given a chance. He did very well against England.” Asked whether this attack was easier than the Rest of India bowling that he played recently, Saha replied. “This is more challenging since it is an international side.”
With the innings cementing his place in the side, the wicketkeeper impressed also with his glove work towards the end of the day when he dived to his right to send back opener Soumya Sarkar.
Some poor work in the field by Bangladesh helped India’s cause as Mushfiqur Rahim missed a stumping chance when Saha was on four. “These things happen. You feel bad for a while but then you move on. We are a good side and hope to come back strong next time we field,” said Bangladesh off-spinner Mehedi Hasan.