Lionel Messi has fans everywhere! Cricket icon Rohit Sharma presented with gift by David Beckham ahead of India’s epic showdown with Australia

Lionel Messi has a World Cup win to his name, and he may have helped to inspire India captain Rohit Sharma to glory in cricketing circles.

WHAT HAPPENED?
The 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup continues to play out on Indian soil, with the hosts preparing to lock horns with old adversaries Australia in an epic final showdown in Ahmedabad. Rohit, along with team-mates such as Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah, will be called upon to deliver on the expectations of millions in their homeland.

THE BIGGER PICTURE
Virat has been rubbing shoulders with a man that knows all about the challenges of performing under pressure, with Manchester United and England legend David Beckham paying a visit to to India in his role as a UNICEF ambassador.
DID YOU KNOW?
Beckham swapped jerseys with Rohit during their brief encounter, as a Real Madrid shirt featuring his name and No.23 was passed on, while the Inter Miami co-owner was also able to deliver a Messi top for one of the Argentine icon’s biggest fans – with Rohit’s daughter proudly taking ownership of that gift.

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WHAT NEXT?
Rohit’s wife, Ritika Sajdeh, said in a post shared on her Instagram account: “Thank you for making this little Leo Messi fan very happy David Beckham.” India will compete for a global crown against Australia on Sunday, while Messi is readying himself for a 2026 World Cup qualification clash with Brazil next Tuesday.
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WHAT HAPPENED?