Messi in India: A Grand Endeavor with Questions Looming

The news of the Kerala government's attempt to bring Lionel Messi and his national team to India for a match next year was met with sarcasm by Indian and Mohun Bagan winger, Ashique Kuruniyan. In his reaction, Ashique pointed out the irony of going to great lengths to arrange such a grand event while athletes in Kerala, and in India at large, face numerous challenges. He highlighted issues like poor travel accommodations for athletes and cases of medal-winning players leaving Kerala due to the state's disregard. 

Though the prospect of watching Messi play in India might seem thrilling, in reality, the match won't be a highly competitive one with Messi operating at his absolute best. Moreover, such events cost a hefty amount, with Argentina's Football Association reportedly charging a minimum of USD 5 million per match since their World Cup triumph. This hefty price tag, combined with other expenses like security and affiliated arrangements, raise questions on the justification of such an endeavor, especially considering the existing state of affairs in Indian sports.