Mumbai Cricket Association Unveils Sunil Gavaskar Statue at Wankhede and Inaugurates MCA Sharad Pawar Cricket Museum.
Sports
On August 23, 2025, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) inaugurated the MCA Sharad Pawar Cricket Museum at the Wankhede Stadium and honoured cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar with a life-size statue at the museum’s entrance, alongside one of veteran administrator Sharad Pawar—signifying a homage to both the sport’s history and governance in Mumbai.
- The newly launched MCA Sharad Pawar Cricket Museum, spanning 8,000 square feet, opened its doors with grandeur. At its entrance, visitors are greeted by impressive life-size statues of Sunil Gavaskar and Sharad Pawar, symbolizing the city's cricketing excellence and administrative leadership.
- Sunil Gavaskar expressed deep gratitude, calling the honour “unique” and recounting that MCA had supported him since his early days. He said he was “at a loss for words” and emotionally tied the tribute to his journey in Mumbai cricket.
- Inside the museum, visitors encounter a blend of physical memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and advanced digital displays. The curated sections pay homage to Mumbai’s cricketing stars, women’s achievements, World Cup successes, administrators, and member clubs, offering both nostalgic value and technological immersion.
Main Point :- (i) MCA President Ajinkya Naik described the museum as a heartfelt tribute to stalwarts like Sharad Pawar and Sunil Gavaskar. He praised Sharad Pawar’s visionary leadership in elevating Mumbai cricket and administrative governance. Ashish Shelar, Maharashtra’s Information Technology Minister, highlighted the museum’s global potential, likening it to iconic cricket museums like Lord’s.
(ii) The museum will open to the public starting September 22, 2025, with admission via online bookings. Its creation not only enriches Mumbai’s sports infrastructure but also stands as a cultural locus, preserving cricket’s rich heritage and inspiring future generations.
____________________________