Cricket great Sunil Gavaskar was visibly moved and “loss for words” when the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) Sharad Pawar Cricket Museum installed his statue at the legendary Wankhede Stadium on Saturday. The ceremony was done in the presence of former BCCI and ICC president Sharad Pawar, with the museum opening to the public on September 22.
“Your uncommon honour doesn’t come by often,” Gavaskar mentioned, taking note of the importance of his statue being placed at the entrance of a museum that will see thousands of fans frequenting it.
Memories of 10,000 Test Runs
The statue commemorates Gavaskar’s record-breaking feat of being the first player in Test cricket history to reach 10,000 runs, which came against Pakistan in Ahmedabad, March 1987. Recalling that day, he stated:
It reminded me of that specific moment when the ball was bowled and I reached the 10,000th run it brought a lot of good memories back,” Gavaskar said.
Tribute to Teammates and Inspirations
Gavaskar emphasized the award was not his individual one but gave credit to teammates and mentors who influenced his career.
This is a tribute to all of them with whom I played cricket at Bhagirathi Bai building, at school, at clubs, in Ranji, and in Tests. Otherwise, this statue would not have been possible.
MCA President Ajinkya Naik made public Gavaskar gave a number of cherished cricketing moments to the museum, which also include two precious caps one Mumbai and one Dadar Union Sports Club that he wore while playing the historic 1981 Melbourne Test victory against Australia when Kapil Dev bowled in pain to achieve victory.
Emotional Connect With Indian Cricket
Even years after retirement, Gavaskar claimed his “heart is still in that Indian dressing room.” He conceded India’s victories and defeats still touched him deeply.
“Every time India win, it’s emotional. I might not be in the changing room, but my heart and emotions are always there.”
He recalled a recent conversation with Cheteshwar Pujara during India’s drawn series in England, admitting that detachment from the team is nearly impossible even 40 years after retiring.
Mumbai’s Lasting Legacy
While lauding MCA for its pioneering role, Gavaskar said Mumbai cricket continues to set benchmarks for other state associations.
“Mumbai cricket has always been a beacon. Standards throughout India have improved, which is good news for the game. But Mumbai can still make finals and semifinals year after year.”
As fans approach the MCA Museum, Gavaskar’s statue is a monument to not only his great deeds but to the resilient nature of Indian cricket.
