New Chandigarh Stadium pays tribute to cricket legends
In a festive prelude to India’s second T20 International against South Africa, the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur was transformed into a celebration of Indian cricketing greatness. Stands named after two of the nation’s most revered players, Yuvraj Singh and Harmanpreet Kaur, were unveiled in honour of their monumental contributions to the sport.
The ceremony, held on Thursday, December 11, drew special attention not only for its tribute to past heroes but also for the positive energy it brought to the stadium ahead of a high-profile men’s international fixture.
AAP Punjab highlights honours and rewards
The unveiling was accompanied by formal recognition of achievements from both the men’s and women’s game, underscoring Indian cricket’s evolving legacy across generations. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann felicitated members of India’s 2025 ICC Women’s World Cup–winning squad, including captain Harmanpreet Kaur, Harleen Deol and Amanjot Kaur. Each of the players received ₹11 lakh (approx. US$ 11.1k), while Indian fielding coach Munish Bali was awarded ₹5 lakh (approx. US$ 5.5k). Details of the ceremony were later shared publicly by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab on Instagram.
“CM Bhagwant Mann felicitated Punjabi players Harmanpreet Kaur (Captain), Amanjot Kaur, Harleen Kaur Deol and coaching staff of the Women’s Cricket World Cup winning team at Mullanpur Stadium. 11-11 lakh rupees (approx. US$ 11.1K) were given to the players and 5 lakhs rupees (approx. US$ 5.5K) to the coaching staff. A stand built in the name of Yuvraj Singh, and Harmanpreet Kaur was also inaugurated in the stadium,” AAP Punjab posted on Instagram.
This statement brought to light both the ceremonial honours and the financial awards distributed to the women’s world champions and support staff, underscoring the state’s appreciation for their historic success.
Legends on the field and in the stands
Yuvraj Singh’s cricketing journey is etched deeply into Indian sporting memory. Known for his dynamic all‑round performances, he was part of India’s triumphant campaigns at the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 and the 2011 ODI World Cup, where he finished as Player of the Series with 362 runs and 15 wickets. His legacy was underscored by the presence of family, teammates, and well‑wishers at the inauguration.
Harmanpreet Kaur, captain of India’s women’s side, etched her own name in history by leading her team to its first‑ever Women’s World Cup title earlier this year. Her consistent batting prowess and leadership were hailed as central to India’s success in the tournament.
Both stands — one honouring a trailblazer in men’s cricket and the other celebrating a contemporary hero of the women’s game — now stand as permanent fixtures at the New Chandigarh Stadium, inspiring future generations of cricketers and fans alike.
Pep talk energizes Indian squad
The celebrations carried an immediate impact on the atmosphere within the Indian team. Yuvraj Singh, present for the unveiling, was seen giving a pep talk to the Indian players in the pre‑match huddle, adding a personal touch to the ceremony and connecting past glory with present ambition.
With the crowd energized by the honours and the team motivated by the presence of legends, the stage was set for an exciting second T20I between India and South Africa, adding a competitive cricketing chapter to an already memorable day at the Mullanpur venue.
