MCA installs Dilip Sardesai Gate on legendary player's birth anniversary at Wankhede Stadium
Mumbai, Aug 8
To the birth anniversary of legendary Mumbai and India batter Dilip Sardesai, the Mumbai Cricket Association on Saturday formally installed the commemorative board in his name at the iconic Wankhede Stadium.
The official installation of "Dilip Sardesai Gate - Gate No. 3" at the stadium took place in the presence of members of the MCA Apex Council, along with family members, friends, and well-wishers of the late cricketer, as they honoured his vast contribution to Indian cricket on his special day.
The gate was previously designated in Sardesai's honour, but the placement of the commemorative board at the entrance now provides a permanent, physical tribute at the stadium's threshold.
"Dilip Sardesai's contribution to Mumbai and Indian cricket is immense. He was a great cricketer and an important part of India's cricketing journey. On his birth anniversary, it is fitting that we honour his memory and legacy at Wankhede Stadium.
"The board marking his name will serve as a reminder to generations of cricketers and cricket lovers of the contribution he made to the game," MCA President Ajinkya Naik said in a statement.
Renowned as one of Mumbai's finest stroke-makers and a distinguished Test batter, Sardesai played an instrumental role in India's historic 1971 Test series victory in the West Indies by producing performances that remain etched in the country's sporting folklore.
On that tour, Sardesai amassed 642 runs, including two centuries and a double hundred, and played a vital hand in India's historic series win. In 30 Tests for India, Sardesai made 2,001 runs at an average of 39.23, including hitting five hundreds and nine fifties.
Members of the MCA Apex Council joined Sardesai's family in reflecting on his outstanding career, as the association noted that the memorial gate will serve as a constant source of inspiration for future generations while entering the iconic ground.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally! It's heartening to see the board permanently installed. These legends shaped Indian cricket before the glamour era. Youngsters should know about Sardesai's 642 runs in that historic series - true grit and class. 🙌
Respect to the Sardesai family and MCA for this gesture. But I hope they also consider naming more gates after other Mumbai greats like Ajit Wadekar and Bapu Nadkarni. We have so many legends who deserve similar recognition. Just saying.
Such a classy move. The 1971 West Indies series victory is one of Indian cricket's greatest achievements, and Sardesai was the architect. Glad to see Wankhede permanently celebrating its heroes. Hope more such tributes follow. 🇮🇳❤️
As a cricket fan from abroad, it's great to see how India honours its sporting history. Dilip Sardesai was a true pioneer. This gate will be on my must-see list next time I visit Mumbai. Great initiative!
Lovely tribute to a legend who unfortunately doesn't get as much limelight as some modern players. The fact that the board is now permanently there will inspire young cricketers every time they walk in. Well done MCA! 🌟
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