In a moment that beautifully blended nostalgia, pride, and gratitude, Indian cricket icon Rohit Sharma was honored with a stand named after him at Mumbai’s legendary Wankhede Stadium. The unveiling ceremony, held on May 16, 2025, was a stirring tribute to Rohit’s remarkable career and his deep-rooted connection with the city and its cricketing legacy.
A Dream Realized: Rohit Sharma Stand Unveiled
Ceremony Highlights
The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) officially inaugurated the “Rohit Sharma Stand” in the presence of Rohit, his wife Ritika Sajdeh, his parents, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and former BCCI president Sharad Pawar. The event was emotional for the entire Sharma family, with Rohit’s parents pressing the ceremonial buzzer to launch confetti, marking the special occasion.
Rohit’s wife Ritika was visibly moved, reflecting the significance of the moment for the family.
The Mumbai Indians team and support staff attended, underscoring Rohit’s impact on the franchise and Indian cricket.
The ceremony also saw stands named after Ajit Wadekar and Sharad Pawar unveiled, placing Rohit among Mumbai’s cricketing greats.
Rohit Sharma’s Emotional Message
Rohit Sharma, who recently retired from Test cricket but continues as India’s ODI captain, delivered a heartfelt speech that resonated with fans and fellow cricketers alike.
“I never dreamed of what is happening today. As a kid growing up, I wanted to represent Mumbai and India. No one thinks about things like these. For me, it’s like any other sportsman who wants to give their best and serve the nation. While you try to achieve milestones, something like this is really special. Wankhede is such an iconic stadium, there are so many memories here. To have my name here with the greats of the game, I cannot express the feeling. I am super grateful.”
Rohit also shared his excitement about playing for Mumbai Indians in front of the newly named stand, calling it “surreal” and expressing his hope to represent India at Wankhede again in an ODI.
Wankhede Stadium: A Ground of Legends
With this honor, Rohit joins a select group of Indian cricket legends who have stands named after them at Wankhede, including:
- Sunil Gavaskar
- Sachin Tendulkar
- Vinoo Mankad
- Dilip Vengsarkar
- Ajit Wadekar
This recognition cements his legacy not just as a prolific batsman and leader, but as a true Mumbai cricketing icon.
A Family Affair: Emotions Run High
The ceremony was particularly poignant for Rohit’s family. His parents, who supported his journey from the very beginning, were central to the inauguration. Wife Ritika’s emotional reaction captured the pride and joy of witnessing Rohit’s lifelong dream come full circle.
What This Means for Rohit Sharma and Indian Cricket
Symbol of Inspiration: Rohit’s journey from a young Mumbai cricketer to a national icon is now immortalized at the very ground where it began.
Legacy in Mumbai: The stand will inspire generations of aspiring cricketers in Mumbai and across India.
Continued Journey: Despite retiring from two formats, Rohit remains active in ODIs and IPL, with more milestones likely on the horizon.
Conclusion
The unveiling of the Rohit Sharma Stand at Wankhede Stadium is more than just an honor-it’s a celebration of dreams, dedication, and the indelible mark Rohit has left on Indian cricket. As fans look forward to seeing him play at his home ground in front of the stand bearing his name, Rohit’s message serves as a reminder: with hard work and passion, the impossible can become reality.
FAQs
1. Which stand at Wankhede Stadium is named after Rohit Sharma?
The Mumbai Cricket Association has named a stand at the iconic Wankhede Stadium as the “Rohit Sharma Stand” in his honor.
2. How did Rohit Sharma react to the unveiling of the stand?
Rohit delivered an emotional speech, expressing gratitude and saying he never dreamed of such an honor as a young cricketer.
3. Who attended the unveiling ceremony?
The event was attended by Rohit’s family, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, former BCCI president Sharad Pawar, and the Mumbai Indians team and staff.
4. Is Rohit Sharma still playing international cricket?
Yes, Rohit has retired from Test and T20I cricket but continues to play ODIs for India and represents Mumbai Indians in the IPL.
5. Which other legends have stands named after them at Wankhede?
Other cricketing greats with stands named after them at Wankhede include Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, Vinoo Mankad, Dilip Vengsarkar, and Ajit Wadekar.