The Indian cricket team took a break from red-ball preparation and stepped into the world of football. Ahead of the fourth Test against England, the Men in Blue visited Manchester United’s training base at Carrington on Sunday. The event was arranged by Adidas, a shared sponsor of both sides.
The meeting brought together two global sporting giants. Players from both teams bonded through light football sessions, cricket drills, and off-field camaraderie. Adidas described the collaboration as a unique cross-sport moment that showcased the brand’s global reach and vision.
Mohammed Siraj bowled to Harry Maguire. Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant kicked footballs alongside United players. Jasprit Bumrah chatted casually with Mason Mount and Maguire. Head coach Gautam Gambhir was all smiles while posing with Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim.
The most shared image from the event featured a handshake between India captain Shubman Gill and United skipper Bruno Fernandes. The meeting also allowed the coaching staff from both teams to exchange training philosophies and sporting insights.
Manchester United are deep into their pre-season schedule. They face Arsenal in their Premier League opener on August 17. Team India, meanwhile, are focused on the next five days at Old Trafford.
India trails 1-2 in the five-Test Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. They must win the fourth Test to level the series and force a decider at The Oval. A draw or defeat will hand England the series and extend India’s 18-year wait for a Test series win on English soil.
Jasprit Bumrah, who was earlier expected to be rested, may now play due to injuries to Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh. Rishabh Pant remains uncertain behind the stumps due to a finger injury sustained during the third Test at Lord’s.
India’s moment of football fun is now over. All focus returns to the red ball and a must-win clash in Manchester.