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Shishir Hattangadi Urges MCA to Honour Ravi Shastri
Ravi Shastri, a cricket legend who has made monumental contributions both as a player and coach for India, has been left out of the list of celebrated names at the Wankhede Stadium, much to the surprise of the cricketing community. Despite being one of the most impactful figures in Indian cricket, Shastri’s name was absent from the list when the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) recently honoured other stalwarts such as Rohit Sharma, Ajit Wadekar, Sharad Pawar, and iconic figures like Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, and Dilip Vengsarkar — all of whom have stadium stands named after them.
In the wake of this oversight, former Mumbai captain Shishir Hattangadi has written to the MCA, urging them to recognize and commemorate Ravi Shastri for his monumental contributions to the sport. “I must express my surprise and concern at the omission of Ravi Shastri, former India captain, all-rounder, and national coach, from the list of names commemorated at the stadium,” Hattangadi wrote in his letter, as reported by Times of India. His concern stems not just from Shastri’s notable achievements as a player but also from his role in shaping modern Indian cricket as a coach.
Shastri’s Legacy in Indian Cricket
Ravi Shastri’s legacy in Indian cricket is undoubtedly significant. With a career spanning across 80 Tests and 150 ODIs, Shastri proved himself as a solid all-rounder for India. However, his impact wasn’t just confined to the field. He played a vital role in coaching the Indian team, leading them to new heights and guiding them to the number one ranking in world cricket.
Shastri’s accomplishments are far-reaching, with one of his most iconic feats being the record for hitting six sixes in an over during a first-class match, following in the footsteps of the great Sir Gary Sobers. His career also includes being a part of India’s 1983 World Cup-winning team, adding to his prestigious cricketing legacy.
The Call for Honour
Hattangadi’s letter to the MCA emphasized that Shastri’s omission was more than a mere oversight. He highlighted Shastri’s pivotal role in not just the Indian team but in the development of Indian cricket on the whole. “This omission, intentional or not, overlooks a major chapter in Mumbai and Indian cricket’s story. I do not wish to delve into statistics, as Shastri’s legacy is not just in numbers but in the influence he has had on the game — both on and off the field,” Hattangadi expressed in his letter.
Hattangadi urged the MCA to reconsider their decision, stating that acknowledging Shastri’s legacy would offer a richer understanding of the sport’s history, which could further strengthen Indian cricket’s future. He closed the letter with respect, making it clear that his comments were not politically motivated but were based on his admiration for Shastri’s contributions.
Conclusion
As the MCA moves forward with its commemorative plans, it’s clear that Ravi Shastri deserves a place among the legends who have shaped Indian cricket. His achievements, both as a player and a coach, have left an indelible mark on the sport. Shishir Hattangadi’s heartfelt letter serves as a reminder of the lasting influence of Shastri, and many believe that it’s time for the MCA to honour the cricket legend appropriately. For more updates on this story and other cricket news, stay tuned with Cricket Army.
