‘Policy on injured players a huge positive’

Wriddhiman was ruled out of the England Test series due to tendonitis (thigh muscle injury) and his replacement Parthiv Patel did well in whatever opportunities he got. But the team management had always made it clear that Bengal lad is the No. 1 wicketkeeper for India and takes his place whenever he is fit. 

“It’s a great plus for the players (knowing their status). Because after an injury hiatus, when someone makes a comeback, if he is clearly told that “as and when you recover, you will be back in the team,” the individual gets more motivated and that reflects in his performance,” Wriddhiman said. Even though he is undisputedly India’s No. 1 keeper, Wriddhiman complimented Parthiv for his glovework but said that one needs to accept the selector’s decision. 

“When I got injured, Parthiv came in and performed. Whenever he has got chances, he has performed. But maybe, after my double hundred in the Irani Cup, selectors took a decision, which everybody needs to accept,” said the 32-year-old from Siliguri. 

Talking about Irani Trophy double hundred, Wriddhiman said that while Bangladesh attack being an “international one” was better than Gujarat’s, but his approach in both innings was same -- to remain positive and attack. 

“This attack (Bangladesh) was more challenging than Gujarat attack as this one is an international attack. There is some difference but the approach was same like my second innings double hundred during Irani Cup. Initially, I got a reprieve but after that I carried on with positive intent. My aim was to bat as long as possible and contribute as much as possible for the team.”