Lionel Messi might trade his football boots for a cricket bat, potentially playing a seven-a-side match against Indian cricket legends in Mumbai this December.
Messi on the Cricket Pitch?
Reports suggest football icon Lionel Messi is set to visit India and could participate in a unique seven-a-side cricket match. The event is tentatively scheduled for December 14 at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium.
Imagine Messi sharing the field not just with football stars, but also with cricketing giants like MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar, and Rohit Sharma. This highly anticipated exhibition match aims to blend the worlds of football and cricket, creating an unforgettable spectacle for fans.
Mumbai Readies for a Star Visit
The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has reportedly received a request from a prominent event agency to block the Wankhede Stadium for the proposed date. An MCA source confirmed that Messi is expected to play a cricket match with former and current cricketers, with organizers finalizing the complete schedule soon.
This visit is part of Messi’s broader promotional tour across India, which is expected to span from December 13 to 15. Beyond Mumbai, he is also slated to make appearances in New Delhi and Kolkata, marking his second trip to the country.
A Return to India After 14 Years
Messi’s last visit to India was back in 2011, when he led Argentina in an international friendly against Venezuela. That match took place at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium, leaving a lasting impression on Indian football fans.
While there were earlier discussions about the Argentina national football team, including Messi, visiting Kerala for friendly matches in October, those plans have reportedly been put on hold for now.
Messi’s Football Journey Continues
At 38, Messi currently plays for Major League Soccer club Inter Miami. He recently led Argentina to their historic FIFA World Cup triumph in 2022 and is reportedly eyeing one last World Cup appearance in 2026, which will be co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
- Lionel Messi is slated to visit India from December 13-15.
- He might play a seven-a-side cricket match at Wankhede Stadium on December 14.
- Indian cricket stars like MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar, and Rohit Sharma could also participate.
- This marks Messi’s second visit to India, his first since 2011.
The potential cross-sport event promises to be a major highlight for fans in India, celebrating two of the world’s most popular sports and bringing a global icon closer to local legends.
