The Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) will unveil stands named after 2011 World Cup hero Yuvraj Singh and 2025 Women’s World Cup-winning captain Harmanpreet Kaur at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium.
This ceremony ahead of the 7 PM match makes Harmanpreet Kaur the first woman cricketer in North India to receive this honor.
A Historic Tribute to Iconic Champions
The dual honor celebrates careers that have shaped Indian cricket. Yuvraj Singh, a two-time World Cup winner, is immortalized for his iconic performances, including the 2011 ODI World Cup where he was Player of the Tournament.
Harmanpreet Kaur is recognized for leading the Indian women’s team to its historic first ICC Women’s World Cup title just last month. PCA officials stated this honor is a “small token” for their monumental achievements, aimed at inspiring the next generation. While Yuvraj Singh is expected to attend, Harmanpreet Kaur’s parents will represent her at the ceremony.
Stadium Ready for Its Big Debut
The match itself is a landmark event, as it is the first men’s international T20 game to be hosted at the Mullanpur stadium. The excitement is palpable, with PCA President Amarjit Singh Mehta announcing that 95% of tickets for the 38,000-capacity venue have already sold out.
Fans like 22-year-old Shivani Verma are eager to see local stars and big hits. "I am a huge Abhishek Sharma fan... I want him to score big," she shared. However, spectators are advised to bundle up, as evening temperatures are expected to drop to around 7°C.
On the field, India carries strong momentum, having won the series opener in Cuttack by 101 runs. The Mullanpur pitch, familiar from IPL 2025, is known to offer consistent bounce and has seen high scores, promising an entertaining contest.
A Night of Celebration and Cricket
With BCCI President Mithun Manhas and other dignitaries in attendance, the event is a major moment for Punjab cricket. Authorities have deployed around 3,000 police personnel for traffic and security management to ensure smooth operations for the expected full house.
As fans gather for this historic night, the new stadium stands will serve as a permanent reminder of the legacy left by Yuvraj Singh and Harmanpreet Kaur, connecting past triumphs with the promise of future cricketing glory.
