Mithali Raj, Ravi Kalpana to be honoured with stands in Visakhapatnam stadium: Smriti Mandhana's appeal was behind it

In a landmark gesture celebrating women’s cricket, the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) will dedicate two stands at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam to former India skipper Mithali Raj and Ravi Kalpana . The inauguration will take place on October 12, on the day India take on Australia in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup .

The move follows Smriti Mandhana ’s appeal during the “Breaking Boundaries” fireside chat in August 2025, where she urged Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh to recognise leading women cricketers by naming stadium sections after them. Mandhana had highlighted that even prominent venues like Vizag lacked such tributes.

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Responding swiftly, Minister Lokesh consulted the ACA, which approved the proposal to honour two of Andhra’s and India’s most impactful players. “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,” Lokesh said.

The Mithali Raj Stand and Ravi Kalpana Stand will be unveiled ahead of the high-profile clash, marking the first time the Vizag venue has honoured women cricketers in this manner.

Mithali Raj, India’s former captain and one of the most accomplished batters in world cricket, is widely credited with transforming the visibility and stature of women’s cricket in the country. Ravi Kalpana, a wicketkeeper-batter from Andhra, rose through the state system to the national team, and her journey continues to inspire young girls across the region.

Mandhana’s call to action has ultimately culminated in a significant change, and a landmark moment in women's cricket .