David Beckham, the legendary England footballer, was among the spectators at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, where he witnessed India’s thrilling four-wicket win over New Zealand in the first semi-final of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. Beckham, who is on his first visit to India, said he was amazed by the atmosphere and the passion of the fans for the game of cricket.
“I’ve always wanted to come to India and experience the culture, the people and the cricket. And I’m so glad I did. It was electric, passionate and incredible. The noise, the energy, the excitement, it was something else,” Beckham told reporters after the match.
Beckham, who is also a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF, said he was impressed by the talent and skill of the Indian team, especially captain Virat Kohli, who scored a brilliant 95 to guide India to the final. He also praised Mohammed Shami, who took five wickets to restrict New Zealand to 273.
“India played well. They showed why they are the number one team in the world. Kohli is a fantastic leader and a great batsman. He played some amazing shots and kept the team calm under pressure. Shami was outstanding with the ball. He bowled fast and accurate and took some crucial wickets,” Beckham said.
Beckham meets Sachin Tendulkar and other cricket legends
Beckham also had the opportunity to meet some of the cricket legends, including India’s Sachin Tendulkar, who is widely regarded as the greatest batsman of all time. Beckham said he was honored to meet Tendulkar and learn from his insights and wisdom.
“Sachin is a legend of the game and a hero for millions of people. He was kind and humble and shared some of his stories and experiences with me. He also gave me some tips on how to play cricket, which I appreciated. He is a true gentleman and a role model for everyone,” Beckham said.
Beckham also met other former and current cricketers, such as Sunil Gavaskar, Ravi Shastri, Rohit Sharma, Kane Williamson, Brendon McCullum, and Daniel Vettori. He said he enjoyed interacting with them and learning more about the game and the culture of cricket.
“I had a great time talking to all these amazing cricketers. They were very friendly and welcoming and shared their views and opinions on the game and the World Cup. They also taught me some of the rules and terms of cricket, which I found very interesting and helpful. I have a lot of respect and admiration for them and their achievements,” Beckham said.
Beckham reveals his cricketing preferences and aspirations
Beckham, who is known for his skills and style on the football field, also revealed his cricketing preferences and aspirations. He said he would have liked to be a batter or a bowler if he played cricket, and named some of his favorite players and teams.
“I think I would have been a batter or a bowler, depending on the situation. I like to score goals and hit boundaries, but I also like to defend and take wickets. I would have enjoyed both aspects of the game,” Beckham said.
He added that he admired players like Brian Lara, Ricky Ponting, AB de Villiers, MS Dhoni, Ben Stokes, and Jasprit Bumrah, and supported teams like England, India, West Indies, and South Africa.
“I have a lot of favorite players and teams in cricket. I love watching players who are exciting, creative, and passionate. I also support teams who play with flair, spirit, and determination. I think cricket is a beautiful game and I’m a big fan of it,” Beckham said.
Beckham also expressed his desire to watch more cricket matches in India and other countries and said he hoped to see India win the World Cup for the third time.
“I would love to watch more cricket matches in India and other places. I think it’s a great way to experience the culture and the passion of the people. I’m looking forward to the final and hope India can win it. They have a great team and a great chance. I wish them all the best,” Beckham said.
