In a historic moment for Mumbai cricket, the Mumbai Cricket Association honored cricketing stalwarts Ravi Shastri, Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar, and Diana Edulji by naming stands and gates after them at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, unveiled the honors, with a stand named after Ravi Shastri and stadium gates dedicated to Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar, and Diana Edulji. The ceremony was attended by notable figures including former India captains Sunil Gavaskar and Dilip Vengsarkar.
The MCA also felicitated Suryakumar Yadav, the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup-winning captain. The Ravi Shastri Stand, located below the Press Box, now honors the cricketing icon known for his multifaceted contributions to Indian cricket. Additionally, Gate No. 3, Gate No. 6, and Gate No. 5 have been renamed the Dilip Sardesai Gate, Eknath Solkar Gate, and Diana Edulji Gate, respectively, recognizing the immense contributions of these Mumbai legends to the sport.
Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar, and Diana Edulji, each a legend in their own right, have left indelible marks on Indian cricket. Sardesai, known as India’s ‘crisis man,’ was celebrated for his reliability and consistency on the field. Solkar, a remarkable close-in fielder, played a pivotal role in India’s success with his versatile skills and fearless attitude. Edulji, a trailblazer in women’s cricket, not only captained the national team but also made significant contributions to the game as an administrator.
Chief Minister Fadnavis commended the MCA for immortalizing cricketing icons and preserving their legacies at the Wankhede Stadium. MCA President Ajinkya Naik highlighted the importance of honoring these legends, emphasizing the association’s dedication to upholding Mumbai cricket’s rich heritage and inspiring future generations. The families of Sardesai and Solkar expressed gratitude for the heartfelt gesture from the MCA, underscoring the significance of this initiative in honoring their loved ones.
