Rohit Sharma Honored with Stand Naming at Wankhede Stadium

Rohit Sharma Receives Tribute at Wankhede Stadium

The Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) has paid tribute to local cricket star Rohit Sharma by designating Level 3 of the Divecha Pavilion at Wankhede Stadium as the 'Rohit Sharma Stand.' This recognition comes shortly after Sharma announced his retirement from Test cricket.

During the ceremony held at Wankhede Stadium, members of the Mumbai Indians team were in attendance, along with Sharma's family, including his parents and brother. Maharashtra officials were also present, and the celebrated cricketer was invited to address the audience.

As he approached the podium, Sharma expressed his heartfelt thanks to his family for their unwavering support and to the Mumbai Indians for their encouragement. He described the honor of having a stand named after him as "surreal," especially as he continues to play the game. He remarked,

"For me... to honour me while I am still playing, it is very, very special. I have retired from two formats, but I am still playing one format. It will be a surreal feeling on 21st when I come here and play against Delhi Capitals, representing Mumbai Indians, and to have a stand, it will be a very, very special feeling. It'll even get special while representing the country whenever that happens. India plays whichever team here, which will make it even more special."

He further expressed his gratitude, stating,

"I am grateful to have this big honour in front of so many people, especially my family, my mom and dad, my brother, his wife, and my wife, who is also present here. I'm so grateful for whatever they sacrificed for me... I also thank my special team, Mumbai Indians..."

In his signature humorous style, Sharma added,

"My very special team, Mumbai Indians, is also here, who I am pretty sure, are waiting for my speech to get over so that they can start training. But, thank you guys for coming there, and supporting."

Watch the video here:

Watch the Mumbai Indians squad present for the speech:

Watch Rohit leave the stadium with his mother:

This moment marks a significant achievement for Rohit Sharma, a boy from Borivali who rose from humble beginnings to become a celebrated captain, now addressing an audience with an entire stand named in his honor.