MCA Sets the Stage for Spectacular Celebrations Honoring 50 Years of Wankhede Stadium

Mumbai, Dec 19 (NationPress) A special lunch dedicated to the unsung heroes of Mumbai cricket, the groundsmen who maintain the various cricket fields, a tribute to all past and present cricketers from the city, and a dazzling Bollywood-style musical night — these are among the major events planned by the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) to celebrate the remarkable milestone of 50 years of the iconic Wankhede Stadium in January 2025.

As the Wankhede Stadium approaches its half-century mark, the MCA is gearing up for grand celebrations to honor this significant occasion.

MCA president Ajinkya Naik announced on Thursday that the festivities will commence on January 12 and culminate in a spectacular event on January 19 at the historic stadium. The grand show on January 19 will feature an extraordinary gathering of Mumbai’s cricket legends—both past and present. The event will also include captivating performances by renowned artists Avadhoot Gupte and Ajay-Atul, topped off with a stunning laser show.

During a press conference attended by MCA officials and Apex Council Members, a special 50th-anniversary logo was unveiled to commemorate the occasion. MCA chief Naik further revealed plans to release a commemorative postal stamp and a coffee table book on January 19 to honor the rich legacy of Wankhede Stadium, which has hosted cricketing legends like Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, and many other illustrious players.

On January 19, the MCA will also honor Devendra Fadnavis, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, and Ashish Shelar, the former MCA President, alongside the newly appointed cabinet minister in the Maharashtra government.

Naik expressed, "The Wankhede Stadium is a national pride, and its 50th anniversary is a historic milestone for us. This stadium has been the backdrop to countless unforgettable moments for players and fans alike. Through this week-long celebration and a mega evening event, we aim to honor its rich cricketing history and glorious journey. At MCA, we take immense pride in celebrating cricket’s legacy and look forward to uniting the entire cricketing community for this landmark event.”

Established in 1974, Wankhede Stadium is one of the world’s most iconic cricket venues, having witnessed monumental moments in cricket history. From Sachin Tendulkar’s final international match in 2013 to India’s historic 2011 ODI World Cup victory, the stadium has been home to countless cherished memories.

MCA secretary Abhay Hadap also spoke at the press conference, stating, "Wankhede Stadium holds a special place in the hearts of cricket fans. The 50th-anniversary celebrations are a momentous occasion for the MCA as well as the entire cricketing community, and I warmly invite all Mumbaikars to partake in the celebrations.”

During the celebration week, the MCA will host a cricket match between MCA officials and Consuls General, bureaucrats, on January 12. Additionally, on January 15, there will be a special lunch recognizing the contributions and dedication of Mumbai cricket’s unsung heroes—the groundsmen.

Tickets for the grand show on January 19, 2025, are priced at Rs 300 each, allowing fans to be part of this historic celebration and enjoy an exciting evening.

"We have set ticket prices at nominal rates to manage the crowd and prevent any law and order issues. We have consulted with all former international players from Mumbai, including Sachin Tendulkar, and they have confirmed their availability for the events," stated the MCA president.