Ravi Shastri “Honoured and Humbled” as Wankhede Stadium Stand Named After Him in Emotional Tribute
Former India cricketer and head coach Ravi Shastri expressed deep gratitude after being honoured with a stand named after him at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, calling the venue his “karmabhoomi” where his cricketing journey truly began.
The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) on Thursday paid tribute to several stalwarts of Indian cricket by naming stands and gates at the historic stadium after them. Alongside Shastri, former India players Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar, and Diana Edulji were also recognised for their immense contributions to Mumbai and Indian cricket.
The Level 1 stand below the press box has now been officially named the Ravi Shastri Stand, marking a significant honour for one of India’s most influential cricketing figures across generations.
A heartfelt response from Shastri
A member of India’s 1983 World Cup-winning squad, Shastri has contributed to Indian cricket as a player, captain, coach, and commentator. Reacting to the honour, he shared an emotional message on social media platform X, expressing gratitude and reflecting on his journey.
“Honoured and humbled – to have a stand at Wankhede, my karmabhoomi, is incredibly special. This is where the journey began, and where I learned what it takes to compete, fight and never give an inch,” Shastri wrote.
He also acknowledged the personal significance of the moment, remembering his late father and expressing appreciation for his family’s presence at the ceremony.
“I missed my father dearly, but I’m grateful my mother and family could be there to witness the moment,” he added.
Cricketing fraternity celebrates Mumbai legends
The unveiling ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Cabinet Minister Ashish Shelar, and MCA President Ajinkya Naik. Cricketing legends such as Sunil Gavaskar and Dilip Vengsarkar were also present, along with members of the Mumbai Cricket Association and other officials.
The event highlighted Mumbai’s rich cricketing heritage and the contributions of its legendary players who shaped Indian cricket over decades.
Honouring Mumbai’s cricketing greats
In addition to the Ravi Shastri Stand, the MCA also renamed several stadium gates in honour of other iconic figures. Gate No. 3 has been dedicated to Dilip Sardesai, Gate No. 6 to Eknath Solkar, and Gate No. 5 to Diana Edulji, recognising their lasting impact on the game.
Shastri further thanked the MCA and state leadership for the honour, saying the recognition meant more than words could express.
“My sincere thanks to Hon’ble CM Shri @Dev_Fadnavis, Shri @ShelarAshish, Shri @ajinkyasnaik, the MCA Apex Council & the entire MCA management for this great honour. Mumbai gave me everything, and this honour at Wankhede means more than words can express,” he said.
A fitting tribute at his cricketing home
For Shastri, Wankhede Stadium has been central to his cricketing journey—from representing India on the international stage to later shaping the team as head coach. The naming of a stand after him stands as a symbolic tribute to his long-standing association with Mumbai cricket.
As one of the 1983 World Cup heroes, Shastri’s legacy continues to inspire future generations, and this latest honour at Wankhede cements his place among the city’s cricketing greats.
