The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has announced that the Ravi Shastri Stand, along with three stadium gates named after Mumbai stalwarts, will be unveiled at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, April 9.
The decision, approved by the MCA Apex Council on February 27, honours the immense contributions of Ravi Shastri, Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar, and Diana Edulji to Mumbai and Indian cricket. As part of the initiative, the Level 1 stand below the Press Box will be named after Shastri, recognising his multifaceted contribution to the game as a player, captain, coach, and commentator. A former India all-rounder and one of the most prominent voices in cricket broadcasting, Shashtri has had a long-standing association with Mumbai cricket.
The move is part of MCA’s broader initiative to celebrate the contributions of stalwarts who have played a significant role in shaping Mumbai and Indian cricket. The Gate No. 3, Gate No. 5, and Gate No. 6 at the venue will be named after Sardesai, Edulji, and Solkar, respectively, celebrating their lasting legacy in Indian cricket.
The unveiling ceremony will be graced by Devendra Fadnavis, with MCA president Ajinkya Naik, Apex Council members, and several members of the cricketing fraternity also expected to be in attendance.
MCA President Ajinkya Naik gave away his reaction to this step by MCA to honour some of the stalwarts of the game at the iconic venue in Mumbai.
“This ceremony marks a proud moment for Mumbai cricket as we come together on 9th April to honour these iconic figures. The unveiling of the Ravi Shastri Stand, along with the dedication of stadium gates to Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar and Diana Edulji, reflects our deep respect for their invaluable contributions. We look forward to celebrating their legacy at Wankhede Stadium while inspiring future generations to uphold the same values and strive for greatness,” he was quoted as saying by Deccan Chronicle.
Apart from the newly named Ravi Shastri Stand, the Wankhede Stadium also houses several other stands named after Mumbai and Indian cricketing greats, including the Sunil Gavaskar Stand, Sachin Tendulkar Stand, Vijay Merchant Stand, and Vinoo Mankad Stand, each serving as a tribute to their immense contributions to the game and their lasting legacy in Mumbai cricket.
