In a truly inspiring move to celebrate women’s cricket, the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) is set to dedicate two prominent stands at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam. These stands will be named in honor of former India captain Mithali Raj and the accomplished Ravi Kalpana. The grand inauguration is scheduled for October 12th, a fitting date as it coincides with India’s clash against Australia in the upcoming ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup.
This significant decision stems from an appeal made by star batter Smriti Mandhana during a ‘Breaking Boundaries’ fireside chat in August 2025. Mandhana eloquently advocated for greater recognition of leading women cricketers, urging Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh to consider naming stadium sections after them. She pointed out the notable absence of such tributes even in major venues like Visakhapatnam.
Minister Lokesh responded with remarkable speed, consulting with the ACA, who enthusiastically approved the proposal to honor two of Andhra Pradesh’s and India’s most influential players. Commenting on the decision, Minister Lokesh stated, ‘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.’
The unveiling of the Mithali Raj Stand and Ravi Kalpana Stand will precede the highly anticipated match, making history as the first time the Visakhapatnam venue has bestowed such an honor upon women cricketers.
Mithali Raj, a former captain of India and one of the most distinguished batters in the history of world cricket, is widely celebrated for her instrumental role in elevating the visibility and status of women’s cricket throughout the nation. Ravi Kalpana, a talented wicketkeeper-batter hailing from Andhra Pradesh, carved her path from the state system to the national team, and her inspiring journey continues to motivate countless young aspiring cricketers in the region.
Mandhana’s powerful call for action has undeniably brought about a monumental shift, creating a truly landmark moment in the ongoing evolution of women’s cricket.