The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) unveiled the Ravi Shastri Stand at the Wankhede Stadium on today, April 9, adding another name to the venue’s list of honoured figures.
The stand, located on Level 1 below the press box, recognises Ravi Shastri for his long association with Mumbai and Indian cricket, spanning roles as player, captain, coach and commentator. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and MCA president Ajinkya Naik were present at the ceremony.
Mangrekar’s remark draws attention
Soon after the announcement, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar posted on social media, asking the MCA to “keep some gates and stands for future generations” to honour players later. The comment came without naming anyone directly but was widely read as a reaction to the growing number of stands being named at the venue.
There has been no official response from the MCA regarding the remark. The association has continued to honour past players, with Shastri now joining names such as Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar at the ground.
Here his tweet link – https://x.com/sanjaymanjrekar/status/2042107756606595497?s=20
No direct criticism, but timing notable
Manjrekar’s post did not mention Shastri or the new stand explicitly, and there is no indication of any direct criticism. However, the timing of the message, on the day of the unveiling, has drawn attention.
The MCA has maintained that the decision reflects Shastri’s contribution to the game. The move is part of a broader trend of recognising former players at major venues, though it has also sparked discussion on how such honours are allocated going forward.