The iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai celebrated its 50th anniversary with a grand evening on Sunday, bringing together cricketing legends, dignitaries, and fans. The week-long festivities concluded with a star-studded event attended by some of the biggest names in Indian cricket, past and present.
Cricketing Legends Grace the Occasion
The gala evening saw the presence of Mumbai’s legendary cricketers and former and current Indian captains, including Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma, Dilip Vengsarkar, Ravi Shastri, Ajinkya Rahane, and Diana Edulji. Prominent players from Mumbai’s domestic and international cricket, both men and women, also attended, paying homage to Wankhede’s storied legacy.
Sunil Gavaskar Steals the Spotlight
Amidst the celebrations, batting legend Sunil Gavaskar, at 75, delighted the audience with an impromptu bhangra performance. He also joined singer Shekhar Ravjiani on stage to sing the classic “Om Shanti Om,” a moment that quickly went viral on social media.
In another light-hearted moment, India captain Rohit Sharma, from the stage, playfully called out Shreyas Iyer, inviting him to showcase his dance moves. The India batter couldn’t contain his laughter at the request, adding to the cheerful atmosphere of the evening.
Maharashtra CM and MCA President Reflect on Wankhede’s Legacy
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis extended his congratulations to the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) in a letter, acknowledging the stadium’s contribution to Indian cricket. MCA President Ajinkya Naik also highlighted the significance of Wankhede Stadium in his address, calling it “the shining star of Indian cricket.”
He stated, “As we celebrate the legacy of Wankhede and honour those who have contributed to its glorious journey, we also look ahead to a new era that promises to nurture the next 50 years of cricketing excellence. Wankhede is as integral to Mumbai as cricket is to every Mumbaikar, and its legacy will continue to grow in the decades to come.”
Looking Ahead: India’s Upcoming Assignments
India’s cricket team is gearing up for a busy schedule. After a brief rest from the T20I series against England, Rohit Sharma and Shreyas Iyer will return for the three-match ODI series beginning February 6. These matches will serve as preparation for the much-anticipated Champions Trophy next month.
The 50th anniversary celebration at Wankhede not only honored the past but also set the stage for a promising future in Indian cricket, symbolizing the enduring legacy of this iconic venue.
