When you think of football, Lionel Messi is arguably among the first names that will come to people in the modern era. The Argentine is possibly the greatest player of all time but without delving on that beaten-to-death topic, let us think about something else. What if you got to see Messi playing a different sport? And what if, that sport is cricket? Well, for his fans from Asia, that is bound to be a massive treat, right? Come December 2025, this scenario may not be a fantasy any longer as Messi could be playing cricket in India of all places. That too at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai! For people of India, getting to witness Messi weaving his football magic might be the ultimate dream for sports lovers but then, seeing him would be a win in itself.
First things first, this news might appeal to people as a potential prank but the good news is that it isn't one. According to a report by The Indian Express, an event management company that is in proximity with Messi has approached the Mumbai Cricket Association to book the Wankhede Stadium for December 14, as that is the date when Messi is expected to visit the ground as part of his visit to India during that period. While it is too early to confirm anything concrete, reports suggest that Messi will be playing an exhibition game with former and current cricketers, with MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli also expected to be a part of the contest. Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma and a host of other legends could also see themselves in this fixture that is reportedly going to be a seven-a-side contest.
If this falls into place, it will undoubtedly be a casting coup of unprecedented levels as the combination of cricket and football icons in a single frame is going to be a treat for the masses.
'Messi will be at Wankhede Stadium on December 14. He is likely to play a cricket match too with former and current cricketers. The organisers will come up with a complete schedule once everything is finalised,' said a source close to the MCA.
