BENGALURU– A new chapter has begun for the Indian senior men’s national football team under head coach Khalid Jamil, who officially kicked off his first training camp on Independence Day. Six days and five training sessions in, the Blue Tigers are already blending familiar veterans with promising newcomers.
Jamil’s 25-player camp includes four first-time call-ups: defenders Alex Saji, Sunil Benchamin, Muhammed Uvais, and forward Manvir Singh. The coach has also kept a close watch on the ongoing Durand Cup, bringing in additional players as they become available from their clubs, as India prepares for the CAFA Nations Cup 2025.
“My doors are always open to every player,” Jamil said. “The CAFA Nations Cup will be an excellent opportunity to test ourselves against quality opponents. Some players may not be in the squad right now because I want to try others, but we’ll bring our best squad for the Asian Cup qualifiers.”
For 24-year-old forward Manvir Singh, the call-up is the chance he has long awaited. Last part of the U-19 squad in 2019, Singh said he had been waiting six years to wear the national jersey again. “As a striker in India, I know how tough it is to get chances. I gave my best in the Durand Cup, and now I have another opportunity. I must repay the coach’s trust,” he said.
Army man Sunil Benchamin earned his maiden call-up at 32, becoming the first player from the Indian Army to reach the national camp in four decades. “It’s difficult for us in the Army to get to this level today, but football has changed and the Army is supporting us more. I just want to give my best and leave the rest to the coach,” he said.
Full-back Muhammed Uvais admitted he did not expect the call, having been left out of the original probables list. But his strong showing with Punjab FC in the Durand Cup convinced Jamil. “It’s surreal to be here. Back home, everyone is proud,” Uvais said.
For goalkeeper Albino Gomes, the recall came after nearly nine years and three major injuries. “Just to see my name on the list is an achievement. I’ve fought back from injuries, and whether I debut or not, I’m happy to be making progress again,” he said.
With the Durand Cup nearing its conclusion, more players are expected to join camp before India departs for Hisor, Tajikistan. The Blue Tigers face hosts Tajikistan on August 29, Iran on September 1, and Afghanistan on September 4 in Group B of the CAFA Nations Cup. The third-place match and the final will be held September 8 in Hisor and Tashkent, Uzbekistan. (Source: IANS)
