Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium is set to host an epic once-in-a-lifetime crossover spectacle on December 14, as Lionel Messi—arguably the greatest footballer ever – arrives in India after 14 years for a star-studded event. The Argentine maestro is expected to take part in a 7-a-side cricket match alongside Indian cricket legends like MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Sachin Tendulkar .
According to sources, the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has given approval for the stadium to host an event following a request by an event management company and cleared Messi’s visit to Wankhede for the day . The blockbuster event will include a celebrity cricket match, a meet-and-greet session, and other fan interactions, reportedly drawing Bollywood stars such as Shah Rukh Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, and Tiger Shroff .
Messi’s visit forms part of a three-city India tour from December 13–15, which spans Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai. In Kolkata, Messi will be felicitated at the historic Eden Gardens and is expected to meet dignitaries, including West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee. The itinerary across cities also features civic greetings and youth engagement activities, including a Football mentor session in a workshop for children.
🚨 MESSI × SACHIN × ROHIT × KOHLI × DHONI 🚨
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) August 1, 2025
– Messi is likely to play a Seven-a-side Cricket match at Wankhede Stadium in December with Big Superstars of Indian Cricket. [Devendra Pandey] pic.twitter.com/Qw8VOMbRzc
The marquee match could feature former elite cricketers Sachin Tendulkar and Dhoni, current stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, and undoubtedly some Bollywood icons. The blend of football charisma, cricketing legend, and Bollywood flair makes this one of the most talked-about events in India this year.
This illustrious event will add one more memorable action at The Wankhede, where India won the 2011 World Cup. Messi in a cricket stadium will add one more milestone to the record book of the stadium.
With Messi’s presence already generating massive buzz, fans will be keeping a close watch on how this extraordinary fusion of sports and entertainment unfolds.
