Mumbai– In a momentous tribute to one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) unveiled the Rohit Sharma Stand at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Friday. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was present at the ceremony, honoring the hometown hero whose name now joins a legacy etched into Indian cricket history.
Wankhede has been a cherished ground for Rohit Sharma since he began his domestic career in 2007. Speaking at the unveiling, the veteran opener expressed deep gratitude and emotion, calling the recognition a dream beyond his wildest imagination.
“First of all, I want to thank everyone who came out to make this occasion so special,” Rohit said. “What’s happening today is something I never even dreamed of. As a young boy growing up with aspirations to play for Mumbai and India, you never think of moments like this. You just want to give your best for the team and the country. Milestones come along the way, but this—this is truly special.”
“To have my name at Wankhede, such an iconic stadium filled with unforgettable memories, alongside the greats of the game and world leaders—it’s an overwhelming feeling. I’m truly honored and thankful to the MCA and the Apex Council. To receive this honor while I’m still an active player makes it even more meaningful. I’ve retired from two formats, but I’m still playing one. To walk out here on the 21st, representing the Mumbai Indians against the Delhi Capitals, will be a surreal experience.”
A mainstay of Mumbai cricket and Indian cricket at large, Rohit Sharma recently retired from Test cricket but continues to represent India in the ODI format. Under his captaincy, India clinched back-to-back ICC titles: the T20 World Cup in 2024 and the Champions Trophy in 2025.
Reflecting on the emotional moment, Rohit also acknowledged his family and team.
“It’ll be even more special when I get to represent India again at this ground,” he added. “To receive this honor in front of my mom, dad, my brother and his wife, and my wife—it means the world to me. I’m incredibly grateful for all their sacrifices. And of course, to my Mumbai Indians teammates, who I know are just waiting for my speech to end so they can start training,” he joked with a smile.
Rohit’s wife, Ritika Sajdeh—often seen traveling with him during tours and known as one of his most steadfast supporters—was visibly emotional during the ceremony.
Since making his international debut in 2007, Rohit Sharma has become one of Indian cricket’s most iconic figures. He was part of the squad that won the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 and has since represented India in 159 T20Is, 273 ODIs, and 67 Test matches. He retired from T20Is following India’s World Cup triumph in Barbados last year. (Source: IANS)
