The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) is set to honor former Indian coach and Mumbai cricket icon, Ravi Shastri, at Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, April 8. In a ceremony attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the MCA will unveil the Ravi Shastri Stand and dedicate gates at the stadium to Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar, and Diana Edulji. This initiative, approved during the MCA’s Apex Council meeting in February, recognizes Shastri’s contributions to Indian and Mumbai cricket.
The Level 1 Stand under the Press Box at Wankhede Stadium will be officially named the Ravi Shastri Stand, honoring Shastri’s illustrious career as a player, captain, and coach. Additionally, Gate No. 3, Gate No. 5, and Gate No. 6 will be designated as the Dilip Sardesai Gate, Diana Edulji Gate, and Eknath Solkar Gate respectively, paying homage to these cricketing stalwarts who have made a lasting impact on the sport.
Ravi Shastri, who played 80 Tests and 150 One Day Internationals for India, also led the national team to significant Test series victories during his tenure as head coach. MCA President Ajinkya Naik expressed his pride in the upcoming ceremony, stating that it signifies a moment of honor for Mumbai cricket. The event aims to celebrate the legacies of these iconic figures while inspiring future generations to uphold their values and strive for excellence.
This tribute follows the MCA’s previous acknowledgment of Rohit Sharma for his contributions to Indian cricket at Wankhede Stadium. By commemorating these cricketing legends, the MCA reinforces Mumbai’s rich sporting heritage and the historical significance of Wankhede Stadium in Indian cricket.