The Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai is about to become more special for Indian cricket fans.
The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has confirmed that a life-size statue of the legendary Sunil Gavaskar will be installed at the entrance of its new museum.
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This special honour comes as a part of the MCA Sharad Pawar Cricket Museum, which is set to be inaugurated next month. For Gavaskar, who took his first steps in cricket through the Mumbai system, this gesture is deeply emotional.
What is special about the upcoming MCA museum at Wankhede Stadium?
The MCA Sharad Pawar Cricket Museum, expected to be unveiled in August, is designed to celebrate Mumbai's massive contribution to Indian and world cricket.
It is located inside Wankhede Stadium and aims to preserve memories and achievements that have defined the city's cricketing identity.
The museum's entrance will feature two prominent statues- of Sharad Pawar, former BCCI and ICC chief and of Sunil Gavaskar, India's first batting superstar.
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Inside the museum, fans can expect to see iconic memorabilia donated by Mumbai legends. It also includes an immersive audio-visual zone where visitors can relive some of the most memorable moments from the past.
How did Sunil Gavaskar react to this announcement?
Sunil Gavaskar, now 75, expressed deep gratitude and emotion upon hearing the news. In his heartfelt statement, he said:
"I am deeply touched and tremendously honoured that Mumbai Cricket Association has decided to have a statue of mine at the entrance of the new MCA Sharad Pawar Cricket museum at the Wankhede Stadium. I will forever be grateful to Mumbai Cricket Association for holding my hand as I took my first steps in the game and to the BCCI for then giving me the opportunity to spread my wings and fulfill the dream of representing my country in the sport. It's an honour which I will cherish for whatever is the rest of my life."
This statue not only celebrates his achievements but also acknowledges the strong foundation he received from Mumbai cricket.
Gavaskar’s reaction highlights how emotional this honour is for someone who gave everything to the game.