Mumbai Cricket Association Honors Ravi Shastri and Other Legends
The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) announced on Friday that it will name a stand at Wankhede Stadium after former Indian all-rounder, commentator, and ex-Team India head coach Ravi Shastri. This decision was made during an Apex Council meeting held the same day.
Additionally, the MCA will dedicate three stadium gates to former Indian women’s team captain Diana Edulji (Gate No. 5), along with cricketing icons Dilip Sardesai (Gate No. 3) and Eknath Solkar (Gate No. 6). These figures played vital roles in some of India’s most monumental Test victories during the 1970s.
The MCA stated, “The Apex Council has approved naming the Level 1 Stand below the Press Box at the iconic Wankhede Stadium after Ravi Shastri, recognizing his significant contribution to Mumbai and Indian cricket as both a player and a coach.”
Shastri played a total of 80 Tests and 150 One Day Internationals (ODIs) for India, amassing 6,938 runs, which included 15 centuries, while also taking 280 wickets. He was part of India’s 1983 World Cup-winning team and the 1985 Champions of Champions squad. After retiring, Shastri took up commentary and later served as the BCCI’s team director before becoming the head coach from 2014-21.
During his tenure, he forged a successful partnership with former India captain Virat Kohli, leading the Indian team to become one of the strongest Test teams internationally. Shastri was recognized with the prestigious Col CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award at the BCCI Awards 2024 in Hyderabad.
Edulji, who took 109 wickets in 54 international matches, expressed gratitude for being honored by the MCA. She stated, “It’s a double honor for me as naming the bridge after me not only acknowledges my cricket but also my contributions to Railway Sports.”
Sardesai and Solkar made their marks in Indian cricket history, with Sardesai being an instrumental figure during India’s historic 1971 West Indies tour. MCA president Ajinkya Naik emphasized the importance of commemorating these legends, stating that the decisions reflect the MCA’s commitment to honoring its rich cricketing heritage while inspiring future generations of cricketers.
