Sheikh Hamdan meets with Team India in Mumbai on April 9, 2025. TEAM INDIA

In a heartfelt moment, Dubai's Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum signed a Team India jersey labeled “Dubai” with the number “11” during a surprise visit to Mumbai. The Dubai Crown Prince also posed with Indian cricket star Rohit Sharma holding the jersey. Photos from the meeting were later shared on Sheikh Hamdan’s Instagram with a caption in Hindi: “Team India Ke Saath Ek Yaadgaar Mulakath” (A memorable meeting with Team India). The post quickly went viral, gaining attention from cricket fans and the global sporting community. Sheikh Hamdan made a surprise appearance in Mumbai on Tuesday (April 9) during his historic two-day visit to India, where he met top Indian cricketers and International Cricket Council (ICC) officials. Sheikh Hamdan, who also serves as the UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, held a brief meeting with Jay Shah, ICC Chairman, as well as Sharma and fellow cricket stars Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya. In the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan reaffirmed the UAE’s growing stature as an international hub for sports and emphasized the country’s commitment to advancing global athletics through strategic partnerships. “The UAE’s infrastructure, innovation, and long-term vision make it a natural hub for international sporting excellence,” Sheikh Hamdan said. He also congratulated the players for Team India’s recent triumph at the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy held in Dubai last month. The cricketers praised the UAE’s world-class sporting facilities, efficient organization, and thriving sports culture. ICA/Expat Media
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