Mumbai (Maharashtra), January 23: The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) added a new milestone to its illustrious history by setting a Guinness World Record for the “Largest Cricket Ball Sentence” in celebration of Wankhede Stadium’s 50th anniversary.
This record-breaking achievement, which took place on the anniversary of the stadium’s first-ever international match, honors the legacy of the iconic venue. Wankhede Stadium hosted its inaugural Test match in 1975 when India faced the West Indies from January 23 to 29.
The MCA dedicated the record to the late Eknath Solkar, who scored a memorable century in that match, as well as to other Mumbai cricketing legends who have passed away but left an indelible mark on the sport.
A total of 14,505 leather cricket balls were used to create the phrase “Fifty Years of Wankhede Stadium” on the stadium field. The record was achieved in the presence of MCA President Ajinkya Naik, along with other office-bearers and Apex Council members.
Here’s the breakdown of the balls used for each word:
- FIFTY – 1,902
- YEARS – 2,831
- OF – 1,066
- WANKHEDE – 4,990
- STADIUM – 3,672
- FULL STOP (.) – 44
- TOTAL – 14,505
In a gesture of giving back to the community, the MCA plans to donate the cricket balls used in the record attempt to aspiring cricketers in schools, clubs, and NGOs across Mumbai, inspiring the next generation to reach for their own milestones.
Ajinkya Naik, President of the MCA, commented, “Mumbai cricket has made significant contributions to the sport and holds a special place in its history. Wankhede Stadium is a symbol of Mumbai’s cricketing pride, having witnessed countless historic moments. This Guinness World Record celebrates Mumbai cricket’s legacy and our relentless pursuit of excellence. It’s also a tribute to all the players, officials, and unsung heroes who’ve shaped this legacy.”
To mark the golden jubilee of Wankhede Stadium, the MCA also hosted a series of events, including the felicitation of the captains of Mumbai’s men’s and women’s teams, as well as members of the Mumbai team that played in Wankhede’s first-ever first-class match in 1974. Additional tributes were paid to former Elected Managing Committee members, the Sports Journalists Association of Mumbai, and the stadium’s groundsmen.
A grand event on January 19 saw cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, Ravi Shastri, Diana Edulji, Rohit Sharma, and Ajinkya Rahane in attendance. The evening also featured electrifying performances by Ajay-Atul and Avadhoot Gupte, capped by a stunning laser show.