On 24 January 1976, Dilip Vengsarkar made his Test debut, beginning a career that became a cornerstone of Indian cricket. As we marked the half-century of his India debut recently, it’s a good moment to reflect on how the MCA honours its legends
Jagdish Achrekar
It’s time to honour Mumbai cricket’s milestone men!
Among players with 100-plus Tests, only Sachin Tendulkar remains, already honoured with a 20‑seat enclosure at Garware Pavilion
On 24 January 1976, Dilip Vengsarkar made his Test debut, beginning a career that became a cornerstone of Indian cricket. As we marked the half-century of his India debut recently, it’s a good moment to reflect on how the MCA honours its legends. In 2021, the MCA gifted Sunil Gavaskar a special AC box to mark his half-century of Test cricket and 100‑plus Tests — a gesture many now feel should be extended to Vengsarkar.
Among players with 100-plus Tests, only Sachin Tendulkar remains, already honoured with a 20‑seat enclosure at Garware Pavilion. Ravi Shastri, with 230 international appearances, falls short of the threshold for an AC box by 20 Tests, but his contribution is vast. He was part of the 1983 World Cup‑winning squad, the “Champion of Champions” in the 1985 World Championship of Cricket, and the first Indian to hit six sixes in an over in first‑class cricket. As head coach, he guided India to series wins in Australia (2018‑19, 2020‑21), and is a fine commentator. Perhaps it’s time to celebrate his all-round contributions by naming a stand after him.
Veterans Ramakant Desai, Dilip Sardesai, and Eknath Solkar also merit recognition at Wankhede through stands or facilities. Add to the list of honour, Ajinkya Rahane’s remarkable 85 Tests and captaincy during India’s Australia tour win. If MCA is open to honouring players who’ve represented multiple state associations, Zaheer Khan (92 Tests) is a notable example.
But beyond celebrations, is there space for more such honours? With limited real estate, a clear policy on honours like AC boxes and statues will ensure tributes are meaningful and sustainable. Honouring legends is vital, but so is planning for the future — balancing tribute with practicality.
Jagdish Achrekar was MCA’s Treasurer before the 2022 elections.
The views expressed in this column are the individual’s and don’t represent those of the paper.
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