Wankhede Stadium to Honour Ravi Shastri With Stand; Gates Named After Sardesai, Solkar and Edulji

Add as a preferred source on Google

Mumbai, Feb 27: The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has announced a major tribute to some of the city's most celebrated cricketers, with a stand at the iconic Wankhede Stadium to be named after former India all-rounder and head coach Ravi Shastri. In addition, three stadium gates will be dedicated to Mumbai stalwarts Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar, and Diana Edulji.

The decision was taken at an MCA Apex Council meeting, recognising the immense contributions of these players to Mumbai and Indian cricket. The Level 1 stand below the Press Box will bear Shastri's name, honouring his legacy as a player, captain, coach, and one of the most prominent voices in world cricket.

Tribute to a Modern Great

Shastri, who rose through Mumbai's strong cricketing structure, enjoyed a distinguished international career before moving into coaching and broadcasting. As India's head coach, he oversaw historic overseas Test series wins and helped shape a dominant red-ball side.

"The proposal to name the Level 1 Stand below the Press Box after Ravi Shastri is a tribute to his immense contribution as a player, leader and coach," said MCA president Ajinkya, adding that the move reflects the association's commitment to celebrating its legends.

Gates to Honour Mumbai's Stalwarts

Three gates at the stadium will also be renamed:

Gate No. 3 - Dilip Sardesai: The elegant middle-order batter played 30 Tests for India and represented Mumbai with distinction across 179 First-Class matches between 1960-61 and 1972-73.

Gate No. 5 - Diana Edulji: One of India's pioneering women cricketers, the left-arm spinner featured in 20 Tests and 34 ODIs between 1976 and 1993 and later played a key role in cricket administration.

Gate No. 6 - Eknath Solkar: Widely regarded as one of the finest close-in fielders in cricket history, the all-rounder played 27 Tests and seven ODIs for India and was a vital part of Mumbai's domestic dominance.

Preserving Mumbai's Cricketing Legacy

The MCA emphasised that the initiative is aimed at ensuring fans are constantly reminded of the figures who shaped the city's cricketing heritage.

"Mumbai cricket is built on the foundation laid by our stalwarts. It is our responsibility to honour those who have brought pride to the city and the nation," Ajinkya said.

With these additions, Wankhede Stadium-already steeped in history-will further strengthen its identity as a venue that celebrates both the past and present of Indian cricket.