Ahead of an eagerly anticipated India-Australia Women’s Cricket World Cup match, the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) is set to make history. On October 12, the ACA-VDCA Cricket stadium in Visakhapatnam will proudly unveil the Mithali Raj Stand and the Raavi Kalpana Stand, marking an unprecedented tribute to women cricketers within the stadium.
This significant decision stems from a powerful suggestion made by India’s star woman cricketer, Smriti Mandhana, to Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Nara Lokesh. During a recent ‘Breaking Boundaries’ discussion in August 2025, Mandhana highlighted a crucial oversight: the lack of stadium stands named after prominent Indian women cricketers, including at the Vizag venue. She emphasized that such recognitions would not only honor their pivotal roles but also inspire countless young girls to pursue cricket professionally.
Responding swiftly to Mandhana’s heartfelt appeal, Minister Nara Lokesh promptly engaged with the Andhra Cricket Association. This led to a quick resolution, ensuring that these iconic women’s cricket figures receive their deserved recognition at the Visakhapatnam stadium.
Minister Lokesh expressed his sentiments, stating, “Smriti Mandhana’s insightful suggestion resonated deeply, reflecting a broader public desire. Our swift action in transforming this idea into reality showcases our collective dedication to promoting gender equality and celebrating the trailblazers of women’s cricket.”
Mandhana’s powerful intervention during the ‘Breaking Boundaries’ event, a platform where leading cricketers discussed the challenges and stereotypes women face in sports, underscored the immense impact that visible honors in major sports venues can have in raising awareness and fostering greater participation in cricket across India.