Beautiful game

I come from India, where cricket has always been more than just a sport—it's a passion. I grew up with the game, playing it extensively during my school and college days in New Delhi. I have been a devoted fan of the Indian cricket team for as long as I can remember. However, on Sunday night, at my daughter's insistence, I found myself watching the FIFA World Cup Final at a café in Dubai. Until then, my knowledge of football came mainly from reading newspapers rather than watching matches. It was the first football final I had ever watched, and I was completely captivated by the energy.

Messi's fans celebrated every touch of the ball, while Lamine Yamal's admirers applauded his every move. The excitement was infectious. I have noticed that football moves so quickly that you barely have time to blink before the action shifts from one end of the pitch to the other. As someone who has always loved cricket, I never imagined football could leave such an impression on me. But after witnessing Spain's victory, I can say that my love for the beautiful game has just begun.

Rashid Hasan,
By email