Under new head coach Khalid Jamil, Indian football is poised to begin a new chapter. Jamil has unveiled the 23-player squad for the CAFA Nations Cup, which kicks off on August 29 in Tajikistan. The announcement has generated considerable buzz, but the absence of legendary striker Sunil Chhetri from the squad has surprised many.
Jamil, who officially took charge of the Blue Tigers earlier in August, has made a surprising move by choosing to move forward without Chhetri, a player who has been at the heart of Indian football for over a decade. Known for his leadership and goal-scoring ability, Chhetri’s omission suggests a shift towards a squad with a focus on youth.
The preparatory camp started on August 1 with 29 players. The final squad was selected after some players from Mohun Bagan were unavailable. Despite this, Jamil is confident in the team, which combines experienced players such as Gurpreet Singh Sandhu and Sandesh Jhingan with emerging talents including Irfan Yadwad and Vikram Partap Singh.
Several factors might explain Chhetri’s exclusion. The management may be building a squad for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. Additionally, the veteran striker may have been rested after a demanding ISL season. Jamil’s tactics could also be a factor, as he may prefer younger forwards who can press aggressively.
India will face Tajikistan, Iran, and Afghanistan in the group stage of the CAFA Nations Cup. The top two teams will advance to the play-offs, with the final taking place in Tashkent on September 8.
Chhetri’s absence is significant for Indian football fans, who were hoping to see him in action one last time. It symbolizes the need for the Blue Tigers to prepare for a future without him. The upcoming tournament will be a test of this squad.
As Jamil begins his tenure, the focus will be on how this team fares against strong opponents. While Chhetri’s international career may not be over, this decision suggests a new direction for Indian football, where the focus is on the future and the next generation of players.