Lionel Messi Likely to Play Cricket Match in Mumbai; MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar Among Possible Opponents

Football legend Lionel Messi is expected to visit India later this year, and if things go as planned, fans could see him playing cricket at the Wankhede Stadium. As per a report by The Indian Express, Messi is likely to take part in a friendly seven-a-side cricket match in Mumbai on December 14. 

The proposed match may also feature Indian stars like MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli.

"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," a MCA source said as quoted to The Indian Express.

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MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar Likely to Feature

If all goes according to plan, the Wankhede Stadium could witness an unforgettable crossover between the worlds of football and cricket. The match at Wankhede could bring together big names from Indian cricket. Along with MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar and Rohit Sharma are also expected to take part.

The idea of Messi playing cricket has already created a buzz among fans. While he is known worldwide for his football skills, watching him take up a cricket bat at one of India’s most famous stadiums would be a rare and exciting moment.

The event is still in the planning stage. Organisers are working with Messi’s team and Indian authorities to sort out logistics, security, and the full schedule. The match will be part of Messi’s promotional commitments in India, which may include stops in Delhi and Kolkata from December 13 to 15.

Lionel Messi’s India Return After 14 Years

Messi's visit in December will be his first trip to India in 14 years. He previously visited the country in 2011 when Argentina played a friendly against Venezuela at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium. 

In recent months, there had been talk of friendly matches involving the Argentina national team with Kerala’s Sports Minister V Abdurahiman announcing an agreement with the Argentina Football Association (AFA). However, those plans have now been shelved.

Currently plying his trade with Inter Miami in the United States, Messi is preparing for one final international campaign with Argentina at the FIFA World Cup next year.

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