Ranbir to watch Messi in action in Kolkata

Kolkata, Aug 19 (IANS) Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor and film maker Anurag Basu will be present at the Salt Lake stadium here on Sep 2 to witness Argentine soccer star Lionel Messi in action.

'I would be coming to Kolkata on Aug 31 because I am the biggest fan of Messi. So me and Dada (Anurag Basu) made a plan long back that we would come and see Messi in action. So really looking forward to that. I hope Messi's visit would do something good to Indian sports,' Ranbir told reporters here Friday night.

Ranbir was interacting with media regarding his upcoming movie 'Barfee' directed by Basu. Co-actors Priyanka Chopra and Ileana D'Cruz were also present at the program.

Soccer superstar Messi will make his debut as full-time Argentine captain but striker Carlos Tevez has been omitted from a star-studded Argentina team that will take on Venezuela in the FIFA official international friendly match.

'I have tied up with Barcelona football club. Messi plays for that team, so I had an opportunity to meet him then. But this time Messi is coming as Argentine player, so I will be present in the stadium just as a football fan,' said Ranbir.

'I have already booked tickets for the Messi match. Last time during Diego Forlan's visit to Kolkata I wanted to come but couldn't,' said Anurag.