During the IPL 2025 match between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) on April 16, Kuldeep Yadav dismissed Yashasvi Jaiswal, who was batting on 51, with a well-bowled delivery. After taking the crucial wicket, Kuldeep celebrated in a manner reminiscent of football legend Lionel Messi, drawing immediate attention from fans and commentators alike. This Messi-like celebration added a unique football flair to the cricket field, blending the exuberance and style of both sports.
Kuldeep Yadav’s Messi-Inspired Celebration
Kuldeep Yadav is known to be a big football fan and has openly expressed his admiration for Lionel Messi. In an interaction with football icon David Beckham, Kuldeep revealed that he is a huge fan of Barcelona and Messi, stating, “After cricket, football is everything for me. I always go and watch Messi. Leo is the best”. This deep respect for Messi explains why Kuldeep naturally gravitated toward a Messi-inspired celebration when the moment called for something special.
Cricket and Football: Celebration Crossovers
Kuldeep’s Messi-style celebration is not an isolated incident. After India’s T20 World Cup win in 2024, a video went viral of Rohit Sharma attempting a Messi-like celebration during the trophy presentation, reportedly at Kuldeep’s suggestion. This playful moment was discussed during a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where Kuldeep demonstrated Messi’s celebration and shared a laugh with teammates and the PM.
Why it Resonates
- Shared Passion: Several Indian cricketers, including Kuldeep Yadav, MS Dhoni, and Shubman Gill, are known fans of Messi and football in general, reflecting the growing connection between cricket and football fandom in India.
- Culture Crossover: Such celebrations symbolize the blending of global sporting cultures, making cricket more relatable to football fans and vice versa.
- Fan Engagement: These moments go viral, sparking conversations and excitement across social media, and drawing in fans from both sports.
Final Word
Kuldeep Yadav’s Messi-inspired celebration is a testament to the influence of football icons like Lionel Messi on cricketers and the broader sporting community. It’s a joyful reminder that, when cricket meets football, the result is often a memorable and entertaining spectacle that transcends boundaries and unites fans.
