In a landmark move for women’s cricket in India, the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) has announced that two stands at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam (Vizag) will be named after Mithali Raj and Ravi Kalpana. The inauguration is set to take place just days before India’s crucial Women’s T20 World Cup match against Australia on October 12, 2025.
This gesture marks one of the first times in Indian cricket history that women players are being permanently honored with stadium infrastructure—a powerful symbol of recognition and equality in a sport long dominated by men.
The ACA-VDCA Stadium, nestled along the scenic Bay of Bengal, has hosted numerous international fixtures since its debut in 1999. But this October, it will make history of a different kind. By dedicating stands to Mithali Raj and Ravi Kalpana, the venue becomes a living monument to the rise of women’s cricket in India.
Local cricket officials say the decision reflects Andhra Pradesh’s deep ties to both players. Mithali, though born in Jodhpur, spent formative years training in the region, while Kalpana hails directly from Andhra Pradesh and has long been a local hero.
No discussion of Indian women’s cricket is complete without Mithali Raj. The former captain and ODI run-machine retired in 2023 after a glittering 23-year career. She remains the highest run-scorer in women’s ODIs and led India to two World Cup finals (2005 and 2017).
Her calm demeanor, technical mastery, and leadership transformed how the nation viewed women in sport. “Naming a stand after Mithali isn’t just about her stats—it’s about the doors she opened,” said a senior BCCI official.
While Mithali’s fame is global, Ravi Kalpana’s contributions have flown under the radar—but not for long. A wicketkeeper-batter who represented India in over 60 international matches across formats, Kalpana was known for her sharp glovework and gritty middle-order resilience.
Her inclusion in this honor is especially meaningful. “Kalpana represents the backbone of the team—the players who don’t always headline but hold everything together,” said former coach WV Raman.
The timing couldn’t be more symbolic. With India set to face tournament favorites Australia on October 12 at the very same venue, the stand dedications will serve as both inspiration and reminder: the current squad stands on the shoulders of pioneers.
Fans are expected to pack the stadium, many wearing jerseys bearing Mithali’s and Kalpana’s names. The BCCI and ACA plan to host a short ceremony before the match, featuring both honorees and members of the current Indian team.
For young girls watching from the stands—or from home—this moment sends a clear message: your heroes belong in the stadium, not just on posters.
Mithali Raj and Ravi Kalpana to have stands named after them in Vizag – ESPNcricinfo
Head coach Gautam Gambhir has demanded a special performance from India as they prepare for…
Sanju Samson played a match-winning knock of 97 not out to guide India past West…
BCCI has appointed Zaheer Khan to mentor India's emerging fast bowlers. This strategic move aims…
Zimbabwe's legendary fan base brought electric energy to Delhi's Arun Jaitley Stadium. Castle Corner transformed…
Pakistan's 2026 T20 World Cup campaign ended in disappointment. We break down the tactical errors…
Gautam Gambhir praised Sanju Samson's Eden Gardens performance, stating the batter finally displayed his true…