Lionel Messi to play cricket with MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli at Wankhede Stadium
Published - 01 Aug 2025, 03:51 PM | Updated - 01 Aug 2025, 11:39 PM
Argentina football icon Lionel Messi is set to visit India in December 2025 as part of a three-city tour from December 13 to 15. According to The Indian Express, Messi is expected to play a friendly cricket match at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai against legends like Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, and Sachin Tendulkar.
Lionel Messi will travel to Indian cities, Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata, during his three-day trip in December this year. This will be his first visit to India since 2011, when he captained Argentina in a friendly against Venezuela in Kolkata. The football legend is expected to be felicitated at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
Lionel Messi to Play Cricket With MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli at Wankhede
According to The Indian Express, Messi is likely to participate in a seven-a-side exhibition cricket match on December 14 at the Wankhede Stadium. Messi could share the field with MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar, and Rohit Sharma.
The match will be coordinated by a leading event management company in collaboration with the Mumbai Cricket Association. While final logistics are still being worked out, the organizers are aiming to create a high-profile encounter.
“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 told The Indian Express.
Lionel Messi to Participate in Multiple Football-Focused Activities in Kolkata
As per the Times of India, Lionel Messi will participate in multiple football-focused activities in Kolkata. He is set to conduct a football workshop specifically for children, helping to inspire and train the next generation of players.
Notably, Messi will officially launch a football clinic in the city to promote grassroots development and the sport’s growth in the region. A special seven-a-side tournament called the "GOAT CUP" will be organized at Eden Gardens in his honour, celebrating his achievements and impact on the game.
Lionel Messi is also expected to be honoured with a felicitation ceremony at Eden Gardens, where West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is likely to be present to mark the occasion.
Argentina Football Team Expected To Visit India In October For Friendly Matches
The Argentina football team was initially expected to visit India in October for friendly matches, following an agreement between the Kerala government and the Argentina Football Association (AFA).
Kerala Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman had announced the plan to host two matches in the state. However, the proposal has reportedly been put on hold. While discussions between the two parties are still ongoing, the idea remains uncertain at this stage.
The 38-year-old is currently playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. Messi is eyeing a final appearance at the FIFA World Cup in 2026. After leading Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022, he hopes to end his international career on a high in the United States next year.
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