Ravi Shastri has worn many hats in Indian cricket, as a player, captain, coach and commentator. Known for his strong personality and deep connection with the game, his journey has been filled with both challenges and triumphs.
That journey comes full circle on April 9, as he is set to be honoured at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium with a stand named after him. The Level 1 stand beneath the press box will now be known as the Ravi Shastri Stand, marking a special milestone in his career.
Looking back, Ravi Shastri shared emotional memories of his early days at the stadium. As a young cricketer, he would travel from Churchgate station to Wankhede, dreaming of making it big. Over time, that same ground became the stage for both his highs and lows.
There was a phase when he faced heavy criticism from the crowd. His family, who attended matches regularly, witnessed those tough moments. The negativity affected his father deeply, to the point that he chose to stop coming to the stadium altogether. However, as Ravi Shastri’s career progressed, criticism slowly turned into respect and recognition.
Later, as team India’s coach and a well-known commentator, he experienced a shift in how fans perceived him. The same crowd that once doubted him began to acknowledge his contributions to Indian cricket.
The honour of having a stand named after him is especially meaningful because of its location, right next to the press box. Ravi Shastri has often credited the media for playing a key role in shaping his journey, making this recognition even more personal.
He also shared how the city of Mumbai has changed over the years, yet the emotions tied to Wankhede remain the same. The roads, the atmosphere and the memories continue to hold a special place in his heart. His mother, in particular, felt immense pride on hearing the news, and his entire family, along with close friends and former teammates, will be present for the ceremony.
Alongside Ravi Shastri, stadium gates will also be dedicated to Dilip Sardesai, Eknath Solkar and Diana Edulji, making it a memorable day for Indian cricket history.
