The Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) is set to honor two of its most celebrated cricketers, Harmanpreet Kaur and Yuvraj Singh, by naming new stands after them at the PCA Stadium in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh. The unveiling ceremony is scheduled for December 11, ahead of the fourth T20 International match between India and South Africa at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium.
PCA's officiating secretary, Siddhant Sharma, confirmed the decision, emphasizing it as a tribute to two influential cricketers from Punjab. Sharma stated that the stand is a "tiny thing compared to the big feat that they've achieved for the nation". He also highlighted that the PCA had previously announced cash awards for Harmanpreet and Amanjot Kaur, which would also be presented.
Harmanpreet Kaur will be honored for leading the Indian women's cricket team to a historic victory at the ICC Women's World Cup in Navi Mumbai on November 2. This marked India's first-ever ICC trophy in women's cricket. Kaur also confirmed receiving a letter from PCA about the stand unveiling at the CNN-News18 Indian of the Year Awards ceremony. The PCA sees the dedication of a stand to Harmanpreet as a gesture of respect for her leadership and her role as an inspiration to young cricketers.
Yuvraj Singh, a two-time World Cup winner, will also have a stand named in his honor. Yuvraj is remembered for his "Player of the Tournament" performance at the 2011 World Cup and his six sixes in an over at the 2007 T20 World Cup. Sharma mentioned that honoring Yuvraj and Harmanpreet aims to inspire young, aspiring cricketers to represent India. He further added that seeing stars like Harmanpreet, Smriti Mandhana, and Jemimah Rodrigues succeed will encourage young girls to pursue cricket.
The PCA's initiative highlights its commitment to honoring players who have significantly contributed to Indian cricket across generations. The association hopes to instill pride and ambition among local talent by naming stands after these celebrated athletes. It serves as a reminder that dedication can lead to a lasting legacy.
