Ravi Shastri Stand Unveiled at Wankhede Stadium

Ravi Shastri joined an elite list of Mumbai cricket legends on Thursday as the Wankhede Stadium formally dedicated a stand in his name, with the Mumbai Cricket Association using the occasion to celebrate several of its iconic figures.

The newly christened ‘Shastri Stand’ was revealed during a special function that drew a distinguished audience, including Sunil Gavaskar and current India T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav, along with a host of other prominent personalities from the cricket fraternity.

As part of the same ceremony, the MCA also named various entry gates at the Wankhede after former India captain Edulji, renowned India all-rounder Solkar and stylish batter Sardesai, who represented the country in 30 Tests and featured in 179 first-class

matches.

Shastri, who also served as India’s head coach after his playing days, was noticeably moved when he addressed the gathering at his home ground.

“My wife is here, daughter is here, she never saw me playing… My sister is there, my nephew is there, everyone is present, I am glad, only one disappointment, my father, he was my hero, he is not present here today,” an emotional Shastri said.

The stand named after Ravi Shastri was unveiled at Wankhede Stadium.❤️ pic.twitter.com/NfreByCam0

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“He watched every game from the Garware pavilion end at that time, but he is upstairs, he will be proud that this has happened…

“There is one shot of mine on this Wankhede Stadium, you’ve hit sixes galore played over a span of 15, but that was against Australia, I hit Bruce Reed on top of the Ravi Shastri Stand, that is my favourite,” said the cricketer-turned commentator in his inimitable style.

Edulji, regarded as a trailblazer for women’s cricket in the country, also found the tribute deeply touching.

“It is a big honour for me and all women cricketers. It’s a dream come true for me. It is a red-letter day for me. I will never forget this day in my life,” said Edulji, who has also been a BCCI administrator. She played 20 Tests and 34 ODIs.

Relatives of Eknath Solkar and Dilip Sardesai, both of whom have passed away, were in attendance as the MCA recognised their enduring contribution to Mumbai and Indian cricket.