Ravi Shastri to have pillar named after him at Wankhede Stadium

MUMBAI: The iconic Wankhede Stadium aims to commemorate cricketing legends, with the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) on Friday announcing that a stand will be named after the former India all-rounder Ravi ShastriNext to it are the gates commemorating Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar and Diana Edulji. While the stand will be named after former Mumbai captain Shastri, three different gates of the venue will be named after players from the city. “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 as a player and coach,” the MCA said. The decisions were taken at a MCA Supreme Council meeting held here. The No. 3 wicketkeeper will be named after Sardesai, who played 30 Test matches for India between 1960-61 and 1972-73, playing a total of 179 First-Class matches. The number 5 wicketkeeper will be named after Edulji, who played a total of 20 Tests and 34 ODIs between 1976 and 1993. Likewise, wicket number 6 will be named after Solkar, a former all-rounder and one of the best near fielders who played 27 Tests and 7 ODIs for India. “Mumbai cricket is built on the foundations laid by our stalwart supporters. It is our duty to pay tribute to those who have brought pride to the city and country,” MCA president Ajinkya said. “The proposal to name the first tier of stands below the press box after Ravi Shastri is a tribute to his immense contribution as a player, leader and coach. “Similarly, dedicating the gates of the Wankhede Stadium to Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar and Diana Edulji ensures that every fan who walks into the stadium is reminded of the legends who have shaped our glorious cricketing heritage. “These decisions reflect MCA’s commitment to celebrating its past while inspiring future generations,” he added.