The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has achieved an extraordinary milestone by setting a Guinness World Record for the largest cricket ball sentence. This remarkable feat was accomplished using an astonishing 14,505 red and white cricket balls at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, which holds a special place in Indian cricket history. The record-breaking event was part of the MCA’s celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of Wankhede Stadium, a venue that has hosted some of the most memorable moments in Indian cricket.
Wankhede Stadium has been home to numerous cricketing legends and was the stage for India’s historic win of the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup under MS Dhoni’s captaincy. To honor the legacy of the stadium, MCA president Ajinkya Naik expressed his pride, stating, “We are thrilled to announce that the Mumbai Cricket Association has achieved a Guinness World Record for the largest cricket ball sentence at Wankhede Stadium, using 14,505 red and white cricket balls. This incredible feat is dedicated to the memory of Late Shri Eknath Solkar and other Mumbai players who have significantly contributed to cricket but are no longer with us.”
The record was achieved on the anniversary of the first-ever international match played at Wankhede Stadium, held between India and the West Indies from January 23 to 29, 1975. This match was significant as Mumbai cricketer Eknath Solkar scored a brilliant century, etching his name into cricketing history. To commemorate this milestone, the MCA ensured the event was not just about setting records but also about inspiring future generations of cricketers.
In a heartwarming gesture, the MCA announced that the cricket balls used to achieve the Guinness World Record will be distributed to aspiring cricketers in schools, clubs, and NGOs across Mumbai. The goal is to inspire young players to achieve their own milestones and carry forward the legacy of cricket in Mumbai. This initiative aligns with the MCA’s mission to nurture grassroots cricket and honor the heritage of Wankhede Stadium, ensuring it continues to inspire future generations.