Ahead of the high-voltage India-Australia Women’s Cricket World Cup match, the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) will inaugurate the Mithali Raj Stand and the Raavi Kalpana Stand at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on October 12. This will be the first time in the stadium’s history that stands will be named after women cricketers.
The move came after Indian star batter Smriti Mandhana suggested to Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Nara Lokesh that two stands at the Vizag stadium should be named after Mithali Raj and Raavi Kalpana. Her suggestion was made during the “Breaking Boundaries” fireside chat held in August 2025.
During the event, Mandhana spoke about how most cricket stadiums in India have stands named only after male players. She felt that honouring women cricketers in the same way would be a strong step toward recognising their contribution to the game.
Smriti Mandhana’s suggestion leads to historic tribute for women cricketers
As per ACA officials, the decision was fast-tracked after Mandhana’s request. They said the renaming would not only pay tribute to legends like Mithali Raj and Raavi Kalpana but also motivate young girls to take up cricket professionally.
Acting on Mandhana’s appeal, Minister Nara Lokesh immediately consulted the Andhra Cricket Association. This led to a quick resolution to dedicate stands in the names of the two iconic players.
Mr. Lokesh said, “Smriti Mandhana’s thoughtful suggestion captured a wider public sentiment. Translating that idea into immediate action reflects our collective commitment to gender parity and to acknowledging the trailblazers of women’s cricket.”
Smriti Mandhana’s remarks during the “Breaking Boundaries” event highlighted how visible recognition can help bring change. The discussion also focused on the stereotypes and challenges women face in sports.
Her initiative has now resulted in a landmark move that celebrates women’s cricket in Andhra Pradesh. The naming of the Mithali Raj and Raavi Kalpana stands at Vizag stands as a symbol of equality, recognition, and inspiration for future generations of women cricketers across India.
