IPL 2025: Rohit Sharma Stand to Be Inaugurated at Wankhede Ahead of Season Resumption on May 16

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IPL 2025: Wankhede Stadium, the historic cradle of Mumbai cricketing dreams, is all set to witness a moment steeped in nostalgia, pride and sheer emotion as the 'Rohit Sharma Stand’ is officially inaugurated today at 4 PM IST.

A tribute long in the making, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) is rolling out the red carpet to honour one of its finest sons – Rohit Sharma – just a day before the IPL 2025 season roars back to life.

The eastern wing of the stadium now bears the name of the man who has become synonymous with grace under pressure and effortless dominance on the world stage. From Borivali boy to global cricketing giant, Rohit's journey is etched into every blade of grass at Wankhede. This stand, overlooking the hallowed turf where he's scripted many a triumph, will now echo with his legacy for generations to come.

A Delayed Tribute, But Right on Time

Originally scheduled for May 13, the inauguration was deferred following a brief suspension of the IPL due to geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan. But as the situation stabilised, MCA seized the moment, aligning the tribute with the eve of the league's resumption. As if scripted for the screen, the stand’s unveiling now preludes a fresh chapter in the IPL, seamlessly bridging past glories and present pursuits.

Today’s ceremony promises to be a grand affair. Dignitaries including Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, MCA President Ajinkya Naik, and political veteran Sharad Pawar are expected to be in attendance. Alongside Rohit’s stand, MCA will also dedicate new stands to cricketing great Ajit Wadekar and stalwart administrator Sharad Pawar, while commemorating the late Amol Kale with a dedicated office lounge.

A Fitting Honour for Mumbai’s Modern Maestro

At 38, Rohit Sharma's cricketing CV sparkles with over 19,700 international runs, a jaw-dropping 264 in ODIs, and a haul of ICC trophies, including the T20 World Cup and Champions Trophy. Earlier this month, he bid adieu to Test cricket, signing off with 4,301 runs and 12 centuries. But in the IPL, the 'Hitman' is still firing — 300 runs at a blistering strike rate of 152.28 this season, proving that class, as always, is permanent.

As the Mumbai Indians prepare to return to Wankhede on May 21 for a crunch clash against Delhi Capitals, fans will for the first time cheer from the 'Rohit Sharma Stand’ — a surreal sight for the opener who once dreamed of playing here as a boy.

More Than a Name – A Message to Mumbai’s Future

This isn’t just about a name on a stand. It’s a message to every aspiring cricketer in the city. That greatness isn’t given — it’s earned. One innings, one knock, one roar of the crowd at a time.

So when the ceremony lights up the Wankhede this evening, it won’t just be a celebration of a cricketer. It’ll be a salute to a legacy — Mumbai’s own, India’s pride, and the heartbeat of Wankhede — Rohit Sharma.