Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India]: In a proud moment for Indian cricket, the ‘Rohit Sharma Stand’ at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium was officially unveiled on Friday, honouring the contributions of the Indian skipper.
Rohit Sharma was present at the event along with his family and key dignitaries, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, NCP-SCP chief Sharad Pawar, and Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) President Ajinkya Naik.
Expressing his heartfelt gratitude, Rohit said:
“What is happening today, I had never dreamt of. As a kid growing up, I wanted to play for Mumbai, for India. No one thinks of this. For me to have my name amongst the greats of the game, I cannot express it in words. This is also special as I am still playing. I have retired from two formats, but I am still playing one format.”
Looking ahead to Mumbai Indians’ final home game of the IPL season on May 21, Rohit shared his excitement:
“It will be a surreal feeling on 21st (May 21) 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 will even get special while representing the country whenever that happens. India plays whichever team here, which will make it even more special. 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 am so grateful for whatever they sacrificed for me. I also thank my special team, Mumbai Indians.”
At the ceremony, Rohit was felicitated by CM Fadnavis and Sharad Pawar, and a special plaque depicting the new stand was presented to him and his family.
Nicknamed the ‘Hitman’, Rohit Sharma is widely regarded as one of the greatest opening batters in cricket history. Across 499 international matches, he has amassed 19,700 runs at an average of 42.18, including 49 centuries and 108 half-centuries. His highest score, 264, remains the highest individual ODI score ever recorded. Notably, he also holds the record for the most double hundreds in ODIs (3).
In his decorated career, Rohit has won one ICC T20 World Cup and one ICC Champions Trophy, and has led India across all formats as captain.
The 38-year-old recently announced his retirement from Test cricket ahead of India’s five-match Test series against England, beginning June 20, which marks the start of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle. He finishes his Test career with 4,301 runs at an average of 40.57, with 12 centuries, 18 fifties, and a highest score of 212.