For former cricketer Ravi Kalpana, witnessing her name permanently inscribed at the ACA-VDCA Stadium is a moment as profound and significant as her very first debut for India back in 2015. This special recognition comes ahead of a pivotal ODI World Cup match where the Women in Blue are set to face Australia.
The Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) has announced a decision to honor two prominent figures: a stand will be named after the legendary Mithali Raj, and the gate adjacent to it will bear Kalpana’s name. “This is truly a momentous recognition,” Kalpana shared in an interview. “There’s a unique sense of pride in having something named after you, a legacy that endures even beyond our presence. It evokes the same incredible feeling I had when I first realized my dream of playing for India.”
She expressed that this honor was entirely unexpected. “It came as a complete surprise, and I’m particularly delighted that the ACA is increasingly prioritizing and acknowledging women in cricket.”
The fact that this tribute places her alongside Mithali Raj, whom she deeply admires, makes the occasion even more special. “Mithali Raj has undeniably been a massive inspiration for me. It wasn’t just her cricketing prowess, but also her eloquent demeanor and her consistent scoring that motivated me. To be honored alongside her is a feeling I can barely put into words; it’s truly remarkable.”
Although Kalpana’s career wasn’t as extensive as Mithali’s, she holds no regrets, expressing contentment with all her accomplishments. “I have absolutely no ‘what ifs’ or regrets about my career. My decision to stop playing was purely due to health reasons, nothing more. I am in good health now, and everything is perfectly fine,” she emphasized, reflecting on her journey with a sense of peace.