In a landmark decision that honors contributions to Indian cricket, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) is set to unveil three newly renamed stands at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, paying tribute to Rohit Sharma, Ajit Wadekar, and Sharad Pawar. The long-awaited inauguration will take place on May 16 at 4 PM, marking a moment of celebration not just for Mumbai cricket but for the nation as a whole.
The MCA had originally scheduled the event for May 13, but it was postponed in light of the recent temporary suspension of the IPL due to geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan. With the IPL now back on track and the schedule adjusted accordingly, the MCA has confirmed the new date for this high-profile event.
The decision to name stands after these three stalwarts was taken at the MCA’s 86th Annual General Meeting held in April. Each of them has contributed in unique and lasting ways to the game, and the association felt it was time to honor their legacies in a permanent and visible manner.
Rohit Sharma, Mumbai’s local hero and one of India’s most successful cricket captains, will have a stand named after him at the stadium where he has scripted several iconic innings. The Level 3 section of the Divecha Pavilion will now be officially known as the Rohit Sharma Stand. Rohit, known for his elegant strokeplay and leadership qualities, is the only cricketer with three double centuries in ODI cricket and has been a pillar of Indian cricket for over a decade.
Ajit Wadekar, one of India’s most influential former captains, will also be honored. Wadekar led the Indian team to historic Test series victories in the West Indies and England in 1971, which are regarded as turning points in Indian cricket history. The Level 4 Grand Stand will now carry his name, ensuring that fans and future generations remember his strategic brilliance and leadership that put India on the world map.
Sharad Pawar, the former MCA president and one of the most powerful cricket administrators India has seen, will also have a stand named in his honor. The Level 3 Grand Stand will now be called the Pawar Stand. Under his leadership, Mumbai cricket witnessed massive infrastructural development, including the renovation of Wankhede Stadium and hosting of marquee international events like the 2011 World Cup final.
In addition to the three stands, the MCA will also rename its Office Lounge in memory of the late Amol Kale, who served the association in a significant administrative capacity. This gesture recognizes Kale’s contributions and his untimely passing, which left a void in the cricketing administration of the city.
The unveiling event is expected to be attended by dignitaries, cricket legends, current players, and officials, with celebrations planned to mark the significance of the moment. The MCA sees this as an opportunity to not only honor the past and present but to also inspire future talent by embedding cricket’s rich heritage into the very structure of the stadium.
With these tributes, the Wankhede Stadium—already a monument of cricketing excellence—will now carry the legacy of three giants who have shaped Indian cricket in different eras and capacities.