Initiative to Preserve Memories of History-Making Players is Innovative: CM Devendra Fadnavis

Mumbai, April 2026 : Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that the initiative taken by the Mumbai Cricket Association to honour the contributions of its iconic players and preserve the memories of those who created history is highly commendable. He added that such recognition is best carried out at a historic venue like Wankhede Stadium.

The naming ceremony of gates and stands at Wankhede Stadium was held at the hands of Chief Minister Fadnavis. The gates were named as Eknath Solkar Gate, Diana Edulji Gate, and Dilip Sardesai Gate, while the Ravi Shastri Stand was inaugurated. On the occasion, Information Technology and Cultural Affairs Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar, cricketers Sunil Gavaskar, Dilip Vengsarkar, Ravi Shastri, Diana Edulji, Suryakumar Yadav, Mumbai Cricket Association President Ajinkya Naik, Vice President Jitendra Awhad, Unmesh Khanvilkar, Arman Malik, actor Jackie Shroff, and cricket enthusiasts were present.

On this occasion, Chief Minister Fadnavis made a respectful mention of the contributions of legends like Sunil Gavaskar, Dilip Vengsarkar, Eknath Solkar, Dilip Sardesai, Diana Edulji, and Ravi Shastri. He said that Sunil Gavaskar gave a new direction to Indian cricket by fearlessly facing fast bowlers without a helmet. Dilip Vengsarkar played a crucial role in stabilising the team during difficult situations.

Referring to Eknath Solkar’s exceptional fielding skills, the Chief Minister said that even in today’s era of modern technology, his fielding would have remained unmatched. He also noted that Dilip Sardesai’s performances overseas helped Indian cricket gain a new standing on the global stage.

Acknowledging Diana Edulji’s contribution to women’s cricket, he appreciated the progress made in the field and her role in elevating the sport. He also praised Ravi Shastri for his all-round contribution as a player, coach, and commentator.

The Chief Minister specially lauded modern-day star Suryakumar Yadav for his innovative batting style, stating, “Suryakumar Yadav, known for playing 360-degree cricket, is a perfect example of Mumbai’s cricket culture. His performances have brought pride to the city.”

Speaking about cricket infrastructure in Mumbai, Fadnavis said the government is committed to preserving smaller grounds in the city and resolving long-pending lease-related issues, some of which have been pending for over 20 years.

He also assured full government support for building a new world-class stadium in Mumbai with a seating capacity of 60,000 to 80,000 spectators, featuring excellent connectivity and clear viewing from all sections. However, he подчеркed that regardless of how many new stadiums are built, the importance of Wankhede Stadium will remain intact and it will always retain its iconic status.

Proper Honour to Great Players – Minister Ashish Shelar

Cultural Affairs and IT Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar said the day marked a golden moment celebrating Mumbai cricket’s rich legacy and ensuring due recognition for legendary players.

He said Mumbai cricket has given the world exceptional players, and this initiative appropriately honours their contributions. He also praised Diana Edulji for her remarkable role in advancing women’s cricket despite challenges and remembered Dilip Sardesai as a “generation-together” cricket legend.

Highlighting Eknath Solkar’s agile fielding, Shelar praised his inspiring life, and referred to Ravi Shastri as a “Champion of Champions,” stating that naming a stand after him was fitting.

He added that Mumbai cricketers have set numerous records at Wankhede Stadium, guiding world cricket, and the partnerships of Sunil Gavaskar, Dilip Vengsarkar, and Ravi Shastri continue to inspire, with many of their records still intact.