Wankhede Stadium's 50th anniversary concluded with a spectacular gala on Sunday, celebrating five decades of cricketing history, with the presence of numerous cricketing icons and dignitaries, as per a statement from the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA).
Founded in 1974, Wankhede Stadium has been a witness to countless memorable cricket moments, earning a distinguished place in the annals of modern cricket history.
A week-long series of celebrations, organized by the MCA, culminated with a grand event, where cricketing legends and captains, both past and present, shared their reflections on the iconic venue. The occasion also saw the honoring of the groundsmen and support staff who have contributed to the stadium’s legacy.
The star-studded gala was attended by Mumbai's cricketing greats 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 both men's and women's domestic and international cricket also gathered to mark the historic occasion.
Throughout the evening, the significance of Wankhede Stadium in shaping Indian cricket was highlighted. The gathering underscored Mumbai's rich cricketing legacy, known for producing exceptional talent year after year, and emphasized the important role Wankhede has played in India’s cricketing journey.
The lively evening, hosted by Mandira Bedi and Prasanna Sant, featured captivating performances by Avadhoot Gupte and Ajay-Atul, along with an impressive laser show, creating a memorable experience for the attendees.
Earlier in the week, Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, sent a congratulatory message to the MCA and its fans, extending his wishes for the stadium's 50th anniversary celebrations.
Ajinkya Naik, President of the MCA, described Wankhede Stadium as a “shining star” in Indian cricket, whose legacy continues to inspire. "The 50-year legacy of Wankhede is a testament to its prominence in Indian cricket. As we honor those who have contributed to its journey, we are also looking ahead to a new era that will guide the next 50 years of cricketing excellence," Naik said. "Wankhede is as integral to Mumbai as cricket is to every Mumbaikar, and its legacy will only continue to grow."
As part of the golden jubilee celebrations, MCA office-bearers and Apex Council Members unveiled a coffee table book and a commemorative stamp to honor the historic stadium. The evening was made even more special with a photo-op featuring the ICC Champions Trophy and a joyous 75th birthday celebration for Sunil Gavaskar.
The week leading up to the gala was filled with a variety of activities, including the recognition of former Mumbai cricket captains, both men’s and women’s teams; the felicitation of players from the first-ever first-class match at Wankhede in 1974; the acknowledgment of groundsmen, alongside the Polly Umrigar Health Camp and a special lunch; and tributes to the Sports Journalists Association of Mumbai. Additionally, friendly matches were played between the MCA, the Sports Journalists Association of Mumbai, Consul Generals, and IAS Officers, among others.
The golden jubilee celebration of Wankhede Stadium brought together cricketing icons and key figures from the world of cricket to celebrate the enduring legacy of one of India’s most beloved sporting venues. The event marks a new chapter for Wankhede, one that promises to continue serving as a key pillar in India’s cricketing future.
