Rohit Sharma with his parents and wife during the event at Wankhede. (Video grab)

NEW DELHI: In a landmark tribute to one of Indian cricket’s modern greats, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) on Friday officially inaugurated the Rohit Sharma Stand at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. The honour, conferred on India’s ODI captain and Mumbai Indians legend, marked an emotional milestone in his decorated career.The MCA also unveiled three other commemorative sections — the Sharad Pawar Stand, the Ajit Wadekar Stand, and the MCA Office Lounge was dedicated to former MCA President Amol Kale’s memory.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!The newly renamed Rohit Sharma Stand at Divecha Pavilion Level 3 celebrates the journey of a local boy from Borivali who went on to become one of world cricket’s most accomplished batters. Rohit, visibly moved, delivered a heartfelt speech in front of family, teammates, and dignitaries.Who’s that IPL player?“It’ll be a surreal feeling on the 21st (May) when I come here and play against Delhi Capitals representing Mumbai Indians,” Rohit said. “And to have a stand, it will be a very, very special feeling. And it’ll be even more special while representing the country. Whenever that happens, it’s going to mean even more.”He expressed deep gratitude to the MCA, Mumbai Indians, and his family: “So many people, especially my mom and dad, my brother, his wife, and my wife — very special people in my life — have sacrificed so much for me to be standing here today.”The entire Mumbai Indians squad was present to support their iconic former captain on this proud occasion.“I know my team is waiting for my speech to end so they can start training,” Rohit joked, before thanking MCA officials, the media, and special guests including Sharad Pawar and CM Devendra Fadnavis. “This is a very special day in my life which I will never forget.”Rohit recently led India to the ICC T20 World Cup title and previously won the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy. He has 19,700 international runs, 49 centuries, and the world-record 264 in ODIs. Under his leadership, MI has won a record five IPL titles.

In addition, Ajit Wadekar and Sharad Pawar were honoured with Grand Stands Level 4 and 3 respectively, recognising their immense contributions to Indian cricket and the MCA.