David Beckham has allayed any fears that he is losing his luscious locks after appearing at the Cricket World Cup sporting a full head of hair.
Beckham, 48, is in India, where the tournament has been ongoing since early last month, as a UNICEF goodwill ambassador. He is on a four-day trip meeting local children who the humanitarian aid organisation helps support.
It comes days after sparking social media speculation with a post that stood out to many for the seemingly sparse coverage atop his head. But it now seems that the photograph was potentially a throwback as his hair is much longer than the buzz cut previously on display.
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There are no noticeable signs of thinning from the photos taken during his days in Gujarat. The same was true after moving on to Maharashtra and Wankhede Stadium to see the hosts beat New Zealand by 70 runs to book their place in Sunday's final.
Beckham's Inter Miami plan dealt first blow which could block Messi transferBeckham was kicking a ball with former India captain Sachin Tendulkar, a UNICEF regional ambassador for South Asia, with children on the outfield while the teams were warming up. He then shared some words with another of their former captains, Virat Kohli, on the boundary edge before the game began.
Whatever Beckham said worked as Kohli top-scored for India with 117 runs. He brought up his 50th One Day International century, beating Tendulkar's record with the legendary batter watching on.
"What an incredible atmosphere," Beckham remarked on Instagram afterwards. "Thanks to UNICEF and Sachin Tendulkar for making me so welcome at the Cricket World Cup. These fans have such amazing energy."
Earlier in the trip, he shared some poignant words about his work with the non-profit. "An incredibly special few days with UNICEF here in Gujarat," the post read. It’s a great privilege to see first-hand the work UNICEF is doing on the ground to support children and their families.
"The energy and innovation I have seen here has been so inspiring, and I loved hearing the children’s stories and their hopes and dreams for the future. When we empower young people, we see the change they can bring to their communities."
Speaking separately to UNICEF, he spotlighted the story of Rinku Pravibhai. "As a father of a young daughter, I was deeply moved to meet Rinku and other young girls who are fighting for change at an early age and having a say in their futures.
"Rinku is a role model for other girls who want to complete their education and fulfil their potential. All these girls have benefited from mentors supported by UNICEF, in partnership with the Government of India."
Beckham added: “I have always been a strong believer in the power of sport in levelling the playing field for children. Sports promotes participation, breaks down gender stereotypes and is a powerful way to help girls to realise their dreams."