Wankhede Stadium Gets Rohit Sharma Stand as MCA Pays Tribute to Icons

In a heartfelt ceremony at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium on Friday, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) unveiled the Rohit Sharma Stand, paying tribute to one of India’s most celebrated contemporary cricketers. The dedication is particularly significant as Rohit becomes one of the few active players to receive such an honour during his playing career.

Alongside the Rohit Sharma Stand, the MCA also inaugurated two other stands in honour of Sharad Pawar, former MCA, BCCI and ICC president, and Ajit Wadekar, former India captain and cricketing stalwart.

Additionally, the association unveiled the MCA Office Lounge, dedicated to the memory of its late president, Amol Kale, acknowledging his lasting contributions to Mumbai cricket.

Expressing his emotions at the ceremony, Rohit Sharma said:
“Wankhede has always been incredibly special to me. It’s where I started dreaming about becoming a professional cricketer, and it’s been the backdrop to some of my most cherished memories. The support from the Mumbai crowd has always pushed me to give my best. To have a stand named after me here is deeply overwhelming. I’m truly grateful to the MCA for this honour.”

Rohit now joins cricketing legends Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, Dilip Vengsarkar, and Vijay Merchant, who have stands named after them at Wankhede — though he stands apart as the only currently active player to receive the recognition.

The families of Sharma, Pawar, Wadekar, and Kale were present to witness the momentous occasion.

MCA president Ajinkya Naik reaffirmed the association’s dedication to preserving Mumbai’s rich cricketing legacy.

“Dedicating these stands and the lounge is our way of weaving these individuals into the very identity of Wankhede Stadium. As we mark 50 glorious years of this iconic ground, it’s our tribute to those who have shaped Mumbai cricket’s remarkable journey and continue to inspire generations.”