January 18, 2025: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis extended his congratulations to the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) and cricket fans on the occasion of Wankhede Stadium’s 50th anniversary. In a letter, CM Fadnavis highlighted the significance of the milestone, emphasizing the stadium’s emotional connection with Indian cricket fans and its status as a symbol of India’s cricketing history.
The CM fondly recalled historic moments associated with Wankhede Stadium, such as Sachin Tendulkar’s retirement, India’s 2011 World Cup victory, Ravi Shastri’s six sixes in six balls, and several unforgettable Ranji Trophy matches. He acknowledged the stadium’s integral role in Indian cricket and expressed his heartfelt congratulations to MCA and the fans for their continued support.
As part of the celebrations, which commenced on January 12, the MCA organized a week-long series of events to mark the golden jubilee. Highlights of the celebration included the felicitation of Mumbai’s men’s and women’s team captains, a Polly Umrigar Health Camp, a special lunch for the groundsmen, and the recognition of the members of the Mumbai team that played the first-ever first-class match at Wankhede Stadium in 1974, who were rewarded with Rs 10 lakh each.
MCA President Ajinkya Naik expressed gratitude towards CM Fadnavis for his encouraging words, emphasizing that the goal of the celebration was to inspire the next generation by showcasing Mumbai’s rich cricketing legacy.
The grand event scheduled for Sunday will feature cricket legends such as Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, Ravi Shastri, Rohit Sharma, and Suryakumar Yadav, along with performances by Ajay-Atul and Avadhoot Gupte, followed by a spectacular laser show.