International Cricket Council Chairman Jay Shah paid tribute to Lionel Messi following the Argentine footballer’s retirement from international football, recalling their meeting during Messi’s historic visit to India.
Writing on Instagram, Shah praised Messi’s extraordinary career and highlighted his humility, stating, “An era-defining international journey comes to an end. Reflecting on our meeting during your historic visit to India, your profound humility stood out just as much as your unmatched genius on the pitch.”
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Shah also described presenting Messi with an India cricket team jersey as a proud moment, symbolising a connection between two distinct sporting worlds. He added, “Personally presenting you with our national colours remains a proud cross-sport moment. Thank you for the memories, @leomessi. Wishing you the absolute best in your next chapter!”
Messi announced his retirement from international football
Messi announced his retirement from international football at 39 on August 31, concluding his long tenure with Argentina. He is the country’s most-capped player and highest goal scorer, having made 203 appearances and scored 124 goals. He also holds the record for most goals in South American football history.
After years of near misses, including the 2014 FIFA World Cup final loss to Germany, Messi achieved World Cup success in 2022, leading Argentina to victory over Kylian Mbappe’s France in the final. This gave Argentina their first World Cup title in 36 years and their third overall.
He also played a key role in ending Argentina’s 28-year title drought by winning the Copa America in 2021 and defending the title in 2024, following the World Cup triumph.
Messi had previously retired from international football
Messi had previously retired from international football in 2016 after Argentina’s Copa America final loss to Chile but reversed his decision, subsequently guiding Argentina to World Cup victory in Qatar six years later.
In the 2022 final, Messi scored twice and converted a penalty, securing a 4-2 win after a 3-3 draw in regular time.
Messi participated in six FIFA World Cups between 2006 and 2026, scoring 21 goals in 34 matches. He is the second-highest goal scorer in World Cup history, trailing France’s Mbappe, who holds the record with 22 goals.
At the 2026 World Cup, Messi scored eight
At the 2026 World Cup, Messi scored eight goals and provided four assists. His performances included his first World Cup hat-trick against Algeria. He briefly held the record for most World Cup goals before Mbappe surpassed him.
Although Messi has retired from international football, he will continue his club career with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. Inter Miami currently sits fourth in the MLS standings, with 12 wins, six draws and four losses, accumulating 42 points, ten points behind leaders Nashville SC.
Source: thenewsmill.com
