At the ACA-VDCA Cricket stadium in Visakhapatnam, the Andhra Cricket Association will open the Mithali Raj Stand and the Raavi Kalpana stand on October 12 in advance of the highly anticipated India-Australia Women Cricket World Cup match. The stadium is reportedly hosting a first-of-its-kind tribute to female cricket players.

After Indian women's cricket player Smriti Mandhana proposed to AP IT Minister Nara Lokesh that two stands at the Vizag cricket stadium be named in honour of Mithali Raj and Raavi Kalpana, the decision was made.

Following the star batter Smriti Mandhana's request during the "Breaking Boundaries" fireside chat with Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh in August 2025, where she drew attention to the lack of stadium stands named after prominent Indian women cricketers, including at Vizag, the decision was expedited, according to ACA officials. According to her, renaming these stands would highlight the efforts made by female cricket players while also paying tribute to their achievements. Additionally, it would encourage the next generation of women to pursue careers in cricket.

In response to Mandhana's request, Minister Nara Lokesh promptly conferred with the Andhra Cricket Association, which resulted in a swift decision to celebrate women's cricket legends by erecting stands at the Vizag venue in their honour.

Smriti Mandhana's well-considered proposal reflected a broader public attitude, Mr. Lokesh stated. Converting that concept into practical action right away demonstrates our shared dedication to gender equality and to honouring women's cricket pioneers.

Smriti Mandhana's participation at 'Breaking Boundaries', where prominent cricket players talked about the prejudices and obstacles women encounter in the game, demonstrated how prominent honours in important locations can raise awareness and encourage involvement throughout India.