The Wankhede Stadium is set to honour some of Indian cricket’s most celebrated figures, with the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) announcing on Friday that a stand will be named after former India all-rounder Ravi Shastri. In addition, three stadium gates will be dedicated to Mumbai stalwarts Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar and Diana Edulji.
The decision was approved at an MCA Apex Council meeting, marking a significant tribute to players whose contributions have shaped both Mumbai and Indian cricket across generations.
The Level 1 stand, located below the Press Box at Wankhede, will now bear Shastri’s name in recognition of his wide-ranging impact on the game — as a player, captain, coach and commentator.
“The Apex Council approved a proposal to name the Level 1 stand below the Press Box at the iconic Wankhede Stadium after former India captain and renowned commentator Ravi Shastri, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Mumbai and Indian cricket, both as a player and as a coach,” the MCA said in a statement quoted by PTI.
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The honour extends beyond Shastri. Gate No. 3 will be named after Sardesai, the elegant right-hander who represented India in 30 Tests and played 179 First-Class matches between 1960-61 and 1972-73. Known for his fluent strokeplay, Sardesai played key roles in India’s historic overseas successes during that era.
Gate No. 5 will commemorate Edulji, a trailblazer of Indian women’s cricket. She featured in 20 Tests and 34 ODIs between 1976 and 1993, and her leadership and advocacy were instrumental in the growth of the women’s game in the country.
Gate No. 6 will honour Solkar, regarded as one of India’s finest close-in fielders. The dependable all-rounder played 27 Tests and seven ODIs, contributing significantly to India’s memorable overseas triumphs in the 1970s.
MCA president Ajinkya Naik highlighted the importance of recognising the legends.
“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,” he said, adding that the move reflects the association’s commitment to preserving its rich legacy while inspiring future generations.
