Wankhede Stadium Honors Cricket Icons with Permanent Tributes
In a landmark decision, the Mumbai Cricket Association has announced the naming of key structures at the iconic Wankhede Stadium after legendary figures in Indian cricket. The move, approved during an Apex Council meeting on Friday, aims to immortalize the contributions of these stalwarts who have shaped the sport's history.
Ravi Shastri Honored with Stand Naming
The Level 1 Stand below the Press Box will now bear the name of former India all-rounder, commentator, and head coach Ravi Shastri. This recognition comes in acknowledgment of Shastri's outstanding service to Mumbai and Indian cricket across multiple roles. Shastri's illustrious playing career spanned 80 Tests and 150 ODIs, where he amassed 6,938 runs, including 15 centuries, and claimed 280 wickets. He was a pivotal member of India's 1983 World Cup-winning squad and the 1985 Champions of Champions triumph.
Post-retirement, Shastri transitioned seamlessly into commentary, becoming one of the most recognizable voices in cricket broadcasting. He famously called MS Dhoni's match-winning six in the 2011 World Cup final. His administrative impact was equally significant, serving as Team India's director in 2014-15 and head coach from 2017-21, during which he forged a successful partnership with captain Virat Kohli to enhance India's performance in Test cricket abroad. In 2024, Shastri received the prestigious Col CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award at the BCCI Awards in Hyderabad.
Gates Dedicated to Cricket Pioneers
The MCA has also decided to name three entrance gates at the stadium after other cricketing greats:
- Gate No. 5 will honor Diana Edulji, former captain of the India women's team and a left-arm spinner who took 109 wickets in 54 internationals. Edulji later served on the Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators for the BCCI in 2018-19, where she championed women's cricket and improved facilities for the national team.
- Gate No. 3 is dedicated to the late Dilip Sardesai, a batting maestro instrumental in India's historic 1971 West Indies tour, where he scored 642 runs with three centuries. Sardesai played 30 Tests, accumulating 2,001 runs at an average of 39.23, and was the first Indian to score a double hundred at the Brabourne Stadium.
- Gate No. 6 pays tribute to Eknath Solkar, renowned for his acrobatic fielding at short leg and his role in India's Test successes during the 1970s.
These gates serve as primary entry points from railway bridges for spectators during international and IPL matches, ensuring that fans are constantly reminded of these legends' legacies.
MCA's Vision for Celebrating Heritage
MCA President Ajinkya Naik emphasized the importance of honoring these figures, stating, "Mumbai cricket is built on the foundation laid by our stalwarts. It is our responsibility to honour those who have brought pride to the city and the nation." He added that naming the stand after Shastri and the gates after Edulji, Sardesai, and Solkar reflects the association's commitment to celebrating its past while inspiring future generations.
The initiative follows a suggestion from former Mumbai captain Shishir Hattangadi in June last year, who advocated for recognizing Shastri's contributions. Edulji expressed gratitude for the honor, noting it acknowledges both her cricketing achievements and her work in Railway Sports.
This decision underscores the MCA's dedication to preserving cricketing heritage and motivating aspiring players and fans who visit the Wankhede Stadium. By permanently commemorating these icons, the association aims to strengthen Mumbai's rich legacy and continue fostering excellence in the sport.
