Stay updated with the latest sports headlines featuring football frenzy in Kolkata, domestic cricket suspensions, Virat Kohli's return buzz, and an upcoming T20 showdown.
1. Lionel Messi event in Kolkata turns chaotic
Lionel Messi's visit to Kolkata's Salt Lake Stadium on December 13, 2025, descended into chaos as thousands of fans overwhelmed security. Arriving at 11:30 AM for a lap around the venue, Messi departed after just 20-30 minutes amid breaches, with supporters attempting to break gates. Heavy security failed to contain the crowd, forcing Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan and others to leave early.
2. Fans vandalize Salt Lake stadium amid unrest
Furious fans at Salt Lake Stadium vandalized banners, seats, and threw bottles after failing to glimpse Messi during his brief visit. The unrest erupted post his early exit due to security
lapses, turning the event into a messy scene despite paid tickets. Authorities are probing the mismanagement that sparked the frenzy at the packed venue.
3. Mamata Banerjee apologizes to Messi
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed shock over the Salt Lake Stadium chaos, issuing a public apology to Lionel Messi and fans. She announced an enquiry committee to investigate the mismanagement witnessed on December 13, 2025. Banerjee conveyed deep disturbance at the unfortunate incident during Messi's Kolkata event.
4. Lionel Messi unveils 70-feet statue in Kolkata
Lionel Messi virtually unveiled a towering 70-foot iron statue of himself at Sree Bhumi Sporting Club in Kolkata's Lake Town on December 13, 2025. The monument, depicting him with the FIFA World Cup trophy, was crafted in 40 days using special fibre technology by artist Monty Pal's team. Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan joined fans in celebrating the tribute, with West Bengal Minister Sujit Bose confirming Messi's approval.
5. Assam Cricket bans four players with alleged fixing charge
The Assam Cricket Association suspended four players-Amit Sinha, Ishan Ahmed, Aman Tripathi, and Abhishek Thakuri-for alleged match-fixing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025. Following BCCI's Anti-Corruption Unit probe, an FIR was filed with police, barring them from all state-level cricket activities, coaching, or officiating. The suspensions persist pending investigation outcomes as the tournament nears its final.
6. Virat Kohli set to play at Chinnaswamy before IPL 2026
Virat Kohli is poised to feature for Delhi in Vijay Hazare Trophy matches at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, RCB's IPL home venue, cleared for competitive cricket post-2025 stampede. The Karnataka government approved hosting after Kohli's inclusion in Delhi probables alongside Rishabh Pant, aiding his match-fitness ahead of IPL 2026 and 2027 World Cup prep. His recent ODI form against South Africa underscores the BCCI's push for domestic play.
7. India look to nod ahead in Dharamshala clash
India aims to seize a series lead over South Africa in the 3rd T20I on December 14, 2025, at Dharamshala's HPCA Stadium, with the score tied 1-1 after SA's 51-run win in the 2nd match. Both teams arrived via chartered flight, with staggered net sessions, SA first from 4:30 PM, India following-building intensity amid high fan excitement. The scenic venue, shut to tourists for security, sets the stage for fireworks from Suryakumar Yadav and Kagiso Rabada.
