To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Wankhede Stadium, the Mumbai Cricket Association honoured eight surviving members of the first-ever first-class match played at the iconic venue.
In a gala ceremony on Wednesday, each player received a cash reward of Rs 10 lakh, and legends namely Karsan Ghavri, Padmakar Shivalkar, Milind Rege, Ajit Pai, Abdul Ismail were felicitated for their contribution to Mumbai cricket. Former elected managing committee members were also honoured during the event.
Earlier in the day, the association also honoured its groundsmen, who have forever remained the unsung heroes. Along with a felicitation ceremony and a special lunch, the groundsmen also had an interactive session with India international and Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane and Dr. Aadil Chagla.
“During matches, every team expects a quality pitch and well-maintained ground. However, the hard work of the groundsmen often goes unrecognized. It’s easy to criticise, but few consider the effort that goes into their work. Today, the MCA has taken a commendable initiative. You, the groundsmen, are vital to Mumbai cricket. Regardless of which teams come to play, your contributions will always be significant,” Rahane told the groundsmen.
Along with a felicitation ceremony and a special lunch, the groundsmen also had an interactive session with India international and Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane and Dr. Aadil Chagla.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
Along with a felicitation ceremony and a special lunch, the groundsmen also had an interactive session with India international and Mumbai captain Ajinkya Rahane and Dr. Aadil Chagla.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
As the occasion coincided with the Polly Umrigar Health Camp that offered essential health services to these key contributors to the game, Dr. Chagla shared insights and advice, fostering community bonding and appreciation for the groundsmens’ vital role in cricket.
Member of the Maharashtra Assembly Shri Aaditya Thackeray joined as a chief guest and congratulated the groundsmen, saying: “Wankhede Stadium has had a significant impact on cricket in our country. Nearly all top players have played here at least once, whether in international or domestic matches. This stadium holds a special place in Mumbai’s heart….”
The week-long celebration will conclude on Sunday with a special programme at the iconic venue, which will be attended by several current and former India and Mumbai cricketers.