WATCH: Rohit Sharma's emotional speech at the Mumbai Cricket Association stand Naming ceremony

Rohit Sharma gave a very emotional speech at the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) stand naming ceremony on May 16, 2025. The ceremony, at Wankhede Stadium, was the official naming of the Rohit Sharma Stand, in appreciation of his invaluable services to Mumbai and Indian cricket. Standing at the podium with the MCA logo, Rohit narrated his state of disbelief and gratitude: "For all of us, what is going to happen today I have never dreamt of." As a child aspiring to play cricket for Mumbai and aspiring to play cricket for India, nobody thinks about these sorts of things." His tone was laced with real emotion, a personal milestone that fits into the revival of the IPL 2025 season on May 17 after being suspended for a week owing to India-Pakistan tensions.

Rohit, who has scored 402 runs in 11 Wankhede international games and guided Mumbai Indians to a record five IPL championships, referred to the dream-like privilege of having a stand named in his honor. "For all of us, what is going to happen today I never even dreamt of. As a young kid who grew up wishing to play the sport for Mumbai, wishing to play for India, you don't think of these kind of things.“ His voice had an undeniable wave of emotion when he said this, and it was an honesty that highlighted his personal milestones in the middle of the start of the IPL 2025 season, returning on May 17 after a week-long pause thanks to India-Pakistan tensions.

The ceremony, in which MCA president Ajinkya Naik and other dignitaries were present, also included the inauguration of stands for Sharad Pawar and Ajit Wadekar and the MCA Office Lounge in the memory of Amol Kale. Rohit's emotional recall of the moment was apparent as he spoke of his career, saying, "While doing that, obviously you try and achieve a lot of things, you achieve a lot of things, and a lot of milestones are created." His words were a tribute to his own achievement and the team spirit of Mumbai cricket, winning over fans as Wankhede continues to pay homage to its heroes.

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A Testament to Legacy and Inspiration

As Wankhede Stadium gets ready to welcome Mumbai Indians' next IPL fixture against Delhi Capitals on May 21, the Rohit Sharma Stand is a testament to his memory that will endure. Rohit's heartfelt speech will be a precious memory, summarizing his career and the vast extent of his contribution to the game. The recognition at Wankhede, a stadium that is equated with cricketing excellence, motivates future generations, symbolizing the indomitable spirit of Mumbai cricket.