In an exciting development just before the highly anticipated India-Australia Women’s Cricket World Cup clash, the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) is poised to unveil the Mithali Raj Stand and the Raavi Kalpana Stand at the ACA-VDCA Cricket stadium in Visakhapatnam on October 12. This remarkable initiative marks a significant milestone, being the first of its kind to honor women cricketers within the stadium’s infrastructure.
This pioneering decision follows a heartfelt suggestion from India’s star woman cricketer, Smriti Mandhana, who proposed to Andhra Pradesh IT Minister Nara Lokesh that two stands at the Vizag cricket stadium be named in tribute to Mithali Raj and Raavi Kalpana.
According to ACA officials, the process was swiftly accelerated after Smriti Mandhana’s compelling appeal during the ‘Breaking Boundaries’ fireside chat in August 2025. In conversation with Minister Nara Lokesh, Mandhana powerfully highlighted the noticeable absence of stadium stands named after prominent Indian women cricketers, including at the Vizag venue. She emphasized that such recognition would not only honor the immense contributions of these athletes but also inspire countless young women to pursue a professional career in cricket.
Responding promptly to Mandhana’s passionate plea, Minister Nara Lokesh immediately consulted with the Andhra Cricket Association, which led to a swift resolution to celebrate these women’s cricket icons by dedicating stands in their names at the prestigious Vizag venue.
“Smriti Mandhana’s insightful suggestion resonated deeply with the public sentiment,” stated Mr. Lokesh. “Translating that brilliant idea into immediate action underscores our collective dedication to promoting gender equality and acknowledging the incredible trailblazers of women’s cricket.”
Mandhana’s powerful intervention at the ‘Breaking Boundaries’ event, a forum where leading cricketers openly discussed the stereotypes and obstacles faced by women in sports, vividly illustrated how visible tributes in major sporting venues can significantly boost awareness and foster greater participation in cricket across India.