Mumbai

The iconic Wankhede Stadium is set to honour cricketing greats, with the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) announcing on Friday that a stand will be named after former India all-rounder Ravi Shastri. In addition, three stadium gates will be dedicated to Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar and Diana Edulji.

The decision was taken during a meeting of the MCA’s Apex Council.

“The Apex Council approved a proposal to name 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, both as a player and as a coach,” the MCA said in a statement.

While the Level 1 Stand below the Press Box will bear Shastri’s name, Gate No. 3 will be named after Dilip Sardesai, who represented India in 30 Tests and played 179 First-Class matches between 1960-61 and 1972-73.

Gate No. 5 will honour Diana Edulji, who featured in 20 Tests and 34 ODIs for India between 1976 and 1993 and was a pioneer of women’s cricket in the country.

Similarly, Gate No. 6 will be named after Eknath Solkar, the former all-rounder renowned as one of the finest close-in fielders in the game. Solkar played 27 Tests and seven ODIs for India.

“Mumbai cricket is built on the foundation laid by our stalwarts. It is our responsibility to honour those who have brought pride to the city and the nation,” MCA president Ajinkya said.

“The proposal to name Level 1 Stand below Press Box after Ravi Shastri is a tribute to his immense contribution as a player, leader and coach. Similarly, dedicating gates at 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 shaped our glorious cricketing heritage.

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“These decisions reflect MCA’s commitment to celebrating its past while inspiring future generations,” he added.