Why Did Khalid Jamil Exclude Sunil Chhetri from Asian Cup Qualifier Squad?
Synopsis
In an unexpected move, Indian football coach Khalid Jamil has announced 23 players for the upcoming FIFA International Match Window, excluding veteran striker Sunil Chhetri. As India prepares to face Bangladesh on November 18, the team’s chances of qualifying for the AFC Asian Cup have become increasingly uncertain.
Key Takeaways
Khalid Jamil announced 23 probables for the FIFA International Match Window.
Sunil Chhetri is notably absent from the list.
India's qualification for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 is highly uncertain.
The team will convene in Bengaluru before heading to Dhaka .
Upcoming match against Bangladesh is crucial for the team's prospects.
New Delhi, Nov 5 (NationPress) Head coach of the Indian senior men's national team, Khalid Jamil, unveiled a list of 23 potential players for the forthcoming FIFA International Match Window. Notably, the revered football icon Sunil Chhetri has been left out.
Chhetri, who returned from retirement to be available for the third phase of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers in March, was included in the earlier announced list of 30 probables for the October FIFA International Window. He had previously missed India’s stint at the CAFA Nations Cup. Chhetri holds the distinction of being the only Indian to feature in three AFC Asian Cups.
The Indian team is set to face Bangladesh at the National Stadium in Dhaka for their AFC Asian Cup 2027 Final Round Qualifiers matchup on November 18. The squad will commence training in Bengaluru starting Thursday, before departing for Dhaka on November 15.
Among the announced players, Mohammed Sanan, who was recently included in the U23 squad, will now join the senior side.
Unfortunately, India’s aspirations for qualifying for the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 have been dashed after suffering a 1-2 defeat to Singapore last month, following a preceding draw of 1-1.
The team currently sits at two points from four matches, and even if they secure victories in their remaining games, their highest achievable total of eight points will fall short of what is needed for qualification.
Probable players for the Blue Tigers' squad for the November FIFA Window:
Goalkeepers: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Hrithik Tiwari, Sahil.
Defenders: Akash Mishra, Anwar Ali, Bikash Yumnam, Hmingthanmawia Ralte, Muhammed Uvais, Pramveer, Rahul Bheke, Sandesh Jhingan.
Midfielders: Ashique Kuruniyan, Brison Fernandes, Lalremtluanga Fanai, Macarton Louis Nickson, Mahesh Singh Naorem, Nikhil Prabhu, Suresh Singh Wangjam.
Forwards: Irfan Yadwad, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Mohammed Sanan, Rahim Ali, Vikram Partap Singh.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize Khalid Jamil's decisions reflect the strategic direction of Indian football. While the exclusion of Sunil Chhetri raises questions, it may signify a shift towards nurturing younger talent for the future. Our support remains with the national team as they navigate the challenges ahead.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Sunil Chhetri excluded from the squad?
Sunil Chhetri was not included in the 23 probables for the upcoming match against Bangladesh, despite his previous participation in earlier qualifiers.
When will India play against Bangladesh?
India is scheduled to face Bangladesh on November 18 in Dhaka for the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Final Round Qualifiers.
Who are the key players named in the squad?
Key players include Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Akash Mishra, Ashique Kuruniyan, and Irfan Yadwad among others.
