The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) is set to honour some of Mumbai and India’s most celebrated cricketing figures with a special dedication ceremony on Thursday at the iconic Wankhede Stadium.
As part of the tribute, a new stand named after former India captain Ravi Shastri will be unveiled, while stadium gates will be dedicated to legendary cricketers Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar, and pioneering women’s cricketer Diana Edulji.
The ceremony will be attended by Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, along with MCA President Ajinkya Naik, Apex Council members, office bearers, and several members of the cricketing fraternity.
The decision to honour these legends was approved during the MCA Apex Council meeting held in February this year.
Ravi Shastri Stand To Recognise Multifaceted Contribution
Under the initiative, the Level 1 Stand located below the Press Box at the Wankhede Stadium will officially be named the Ravi Shastri Stand.
The honour recognises Ravi Shastri’s extensive contribution to both Mumbai and Indian cricket across multiple roles — as a player, captain, coach, and respected commentator.
Shastri, who represented India at the highest level and later guided the national team as head coach, remains one of the most influential figures associated with Mumbai cricket.
Stadium Gates To Honour Three Iconic Figures
In addition to the stand dedication, three gates at the stadium will also be renamed to celebrate legendary cricketers who left a lasting legacy in Indian cricket.
- Gate No. 3 will be named the Dilip Sardesai Gate, honouring Dilip Sardesai, one of India’s most dependable middle-order batters of his era.
- Gate No. 5 will be renamed the Diana Edulji Gate, recognising Diana Edulji, a trailblazer in Indian women’s cricket and a former national captain.
- Gate No. 6 will become the Eknath Solkar Gate, paying tribute to Eknath Solkar, widely remembered for his exceptional close-in fielding and all-round abilities.
These dedications are aimed at celebrating their achievements and preserving their contributions for future generations of cricket fans and players.
MCA Calls Ceremony A Proud Moment For Mumbai Cricket
Speaking ahead of the event, MCA President Ajinkya Naik described the ceremony as a landmark occasion for Mumbai cricket.
“This ceremony marks a proud moment for Mumbai cricket as we come together on April 9 to honour these iconic figures,” he said.
Naik added that naming the Ravi Shastri Stand and dedicating gates to Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar, and Diana Edulji reflects the association’s deep respect for their invaluable contributions to the sport.
He further noted that celebrating these legends at the Wankhede Stadium will help inspire younger generations to uphold the values and standards established by these cricketing greats.
Preserving Heritage While Inspiring The Future
The initiative highlights MCA’s continuing efforts to preserve Mumbai cricket’s rich history while strengthening the sport’s future foundations.
By immortalising these legends within one of India’s most historic cricket venues, the association aims to ensure that their contributions remain visible reminders of excellence and dedication to the game.