Rahul Dravid and Anil Kumble are honoured at M Chinnaswamy Stadium as KSCA unveils newly named ends in a heartfelt ceremony.
The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) paid tribute to two of India’s greatest cricketers, Rahul Dravid and Anil Kumble, by officially unveiling stadium ends named after them at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday. The ceremony was attended by family members of both legends, making it an emotional and memorable occasion.
KSCA president Venkatesh Prasad, along with vice-president Sujith Somasundar and other officials, presided over the unveiling. Earlier, on February 14, the association had announced that Dravid and Kumble, along with former India women’s cricketer Shanta Rangaswamy, would be honoured with stands or ends named after them.
Ends renamed to celebrate legendary contributions
As part of the tribute, the old BEML End was renamed after Rahul Dravid, while the Pavilion End now bears the name of Anil Kumble. Dravid, who amassed 24,177 international runs, and Kumble, who claimed 956 international wickets, are among the most celebrated figures in Indian cricket history.
Their contributions to the game, both at the national and state levels, made them fitting choices for this recognition at one of India’s most iconic cricket venues.
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Rahul Dravid expresses gratitude during heartfelt moment
Speaking on the occasion, Dravid shared his deep emotional connection with the stadium and expressed gratitude towards KSCA for the honour.
“It’s been a second home to me. It’s been a place where we’ve probably spent more time than we have in our houses. But it’s also a place that has truly given me everything I am today. I can never be grateful enough for what the KSCA and this great, iconic ground have given me in my life.
“I’m truly thankful that Venkatesh Prasad and his committee have decided to name an end after me. It means a lot. I know this would mean a lot to my family as well,” Dravid had said.
Dravid’s family, including his mother Pushpa Dravid and brother Vijay, were present at the ceremony. Meanwhile, Kumble’s family, his wife Chetana and children Mayas, Aaruni, and Swasthi, also attended the event, marking a proud and emotional moment for both cricketing icons.
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