Former India wicketkeeper-batter Reporter has recently revealed that he turned down lucrative coaching offer for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 from the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

Wriddhiman Saha opens up on turning down KKR’s coaching opportunity

Speaking to Sportstar, Saha emphasized that he wants to take his time before committing to such responsibilities. The 40-year-old explained that while he enjoys mentoring young cricketers, he believes that anyone taking up a coaching role should be mentally and technically prepared.

“Throughout my career, I have believed that if someone wants to take up an assignment, they need to be absolutely ready – both in terms of preparation and mentality – only then can they succeed in that role,” Saha said.

While Saha had expressed interest in coaching after retirement, he is currently prioritizing spending time with his family. He admitted that he received an offer from KKR to be an assistant coach but declined as he felt the timing was not right.

“I’m not ready for that kind of coaching position yet, which is why I turned down the offer from Kolkata Knight Riders. I’m sure it would have been a fantastic opportunity, but I needed more time before committing to a full-fledged coaching role,” Saha added.

KKR, which is currently led by head coach Chandrakant panditis yet to announce replacements for Gautam gambhir (mentor), Abhishek nayar (assistant coach) and Ryan Ten Doeschate (fielding coach), who have all taken up roles with the Indian men’s cricket team.

Saha’s final match at Eden Gardens before retirement

Saha, who had announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in November 2024, is set to play his final match for Bengal in the Ranji Trophy clash against Punjab at Eden Gardens. Despite his presence, Bengal have already been eliminated from the quarterfinal race following a 283-run defeat against Haryanawho topped Elite Group C.

Saha made his international debut in 2010 against South Africa in Nagpur, going on to represent India in 40 Test matches, where he scored 1,353 runs at an average of 29, while also effecting 92 catches and 12 stumpings. Though he was widely regarded as one of the best wicketkeepers in world cricket, injuries and the emergence of Rishabh pant as India’s first-choice Test keeper limited his opportunities.

Saha’s IPL success and contribution to Gujarat Titans’ title win

Saha also played a crucial role in Gujarat Titans’ (GT) IPL 2022 title-winning campaign. Opening the batting for the team, he scored 317 runs in 11 matches, providing solid starts at the top of the order. His ability to absorb pressure and accelerate when needed made him a valuable asset for Gujarat in their debut season. Although Saha’s international career did not reach the heights many expected, his contributions to Indian cricket – both at the domestic and IPL levels – remain highly respected. As he bids farewell to professional cricket, his next chapter remains open, with a possible coaching role in the future once he feels ready to take on such responsibilities.