Visakhapatnam – October 12, 2025 The ACA-VDCA cricket stadium in Visakhapatnam marked a significant milestone today with the naming of a stand after cricket icon Mithali Raj and a gate in honor of Kalpana Ravi, reflecting a bold step toward gender inclusivity in sports.
This move transcends mere tradition; it embodies a powerful statement of values and serves as an inspiration for future generations. The idea gained traction during an August 2025 roundtable with India’s women cricketers, where Smriti Mandhana passionately advocated for stadiums to equally showcase women’s achievements alongside men’s, starting with the stands that motivate young athletes. “This vision struck a chord with Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh, prompting today’s action.“
The Andhra Cricket Association has designated a stand at the ACA-VDCA Stadium to commemorate Mithali Raj, a trailblazer whose exceptional leadership and unwavering consistency propelled Indian women’s cricket onto the global stage, igniting dreams in millions. Simultaneously, a gate will bear the name of Kalpana Ravi, acknowledging the unsung heroes who have bolstered the sport’s foundation.
This initiative underscores a broader pledge: to build venues where recognition hinges on talent, not gender, and where every young girl can envision her potential reflected in the very structure of our sporting heritage.
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