Cricket franchises engage in banter over reports of Messi's departure from Barcelona

The news of Lionel Messi's probable exit from FC Barcelona has sent shockwaves in the media and elsewhere. Football fans are stunned to discover the fact there might finally be an end to Messi's two decades' long association with the Spanish giants following their loss to FC Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final.

There is no denying the legendary soccer player's indisputable GOAT [greatest of all time] status as his immense popularity pervades beyond football itself.

As soon as the 33-year-old Barcelona captain's decision to leave the club was made public, netizens took over social media networking sites to express their opinions.

Amid this backdrop, cricket franchises also availed the chance to talk about the hot topic and consider the dream scenario of Messi playing for them.

Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Peshawar Zalmi touched upon the uncanny resemblance between leg-spinner Yasir Shah and Messi as they tweeted: "Did Yasir Shah get a new tattoo or has Lionel Messi Joined the #YellowStorm?"

The tweet accompanied a photograph depicting Messi donning the yellow and black jersey of Zalmi.

Two-time Indian Premier League winners Kolkata Knight Riders also set the ball rolling with another edit of the Argentine wearing the Purple and Gold – the colours of their outfits.

Delhi Capitals too joined in on the fun by hilariously refuting 'unsubstantiated rumours' of a bid for Messi from the IPL team.

While speculations continue to be in overdrive regarding Messi's future, chances of a bizarre transition to cricket remain zilch despite the wishful thinking of certain franchises in good humour.