Can First-timers Suhail Bhat, Nikhil Prabhu, Hrithik Tiwari Envision a Brighter Future in Blue Tigers Colors?

Kolkata, May 22 (NationPress) Every senior national team camp is a sanctuary of aspirations. Aspirations of the initial training session, the first time stepping onto the pitch adorned in the blue of India, the first cap, and the inaugural goal. In Kolkata this time, three newcomers resonate with that - Suhail Ahmad Bhat, Nikhil Prabhu, and Hrithik Tiwari.

Bhat, at just 20 years, is the youngest in the camp and was merely two months old when Sunil Chhetri debuted for India and netted his first goal. Now, these two strikers share the same training ground. It’s hard to find a young Indian striker who doesn’t admire Chhetri.

"Training with Chhetri bhai is surreal, and our conversations feel like a dream come true. I have always longed to understand what it’s like to be in his presence," Bhat expressed to the AIFF's website.

"Being here in the senior team is a dream realized. Starting from the U16s and climbing through the U19s to the U23s, the desire to join the senior national team has always fueled me. Reaching this point requires immense hard work. The finest players in the country are here, making it a dream fulfilled to train among them.

Bhat, who represents Mohun Bagan SG in club football, has participated in U16 and U23 international matches for India. He was part of the AFC U23 Asian Cup Qualifiers squad in 2023 at just 18 years. After three days of training with the senior team, Suhail shared his perspective on the leap.

"The difference is evident. While we represent the country in the youth teams, the senior team is on a different level. The competition here is significantly stiffer. The gap is much broader.

"I aspire to make my debut, not just for myself, but for my family and the entire Kashmir. My dream is a reflection of Kashmir's dream. I will continue to work diligently," Suhail added.

Defensive midfielder Nikhil Prabhu also feels the thrill of the first camp but views it as just the beginning.

"The call-up felt like a dream realized, not only for me but for my parents as well. I knew I was living the dream I had diligently pursued, but it also felt like the start of a longer journey," Prabhu shared.

The 24-year-old showcased consistent performances for Punjab FC in the Indian Super League this season, impressing head coach Manolo Márquez with his versatility and competitive spirit.

"At the club level, you play with foreign players and adapt to a specific style. However, in the national team, you are alongside names you have admired, which adds a unique responsibility and feeling," Prabhu reflected.

"The camp atmosphere has been overwhelmingly positive. I am gaining a wealth of knowledge from my teammates and seniors, both on and off the field. I have been putting in the effort and patiently waiting for this opportunity," he further added.

For goalkeeper Hrithik Tiwari, this camp is a pivotal opportunity to learn not only from India’s best custodians but also to compete for a spot in the matchday squad.

"The camp environment is incredible—very professional yet warm and inviting. Training at this level, especially as a goalkeeper, challenges you daily. I’m truly enjoying it and learning immensely from seasoned keepers like Amrinder Singh paaji, Vishal Kaith bhai, and Gurmeet Singh bhai, who are among the finest in the nation.

Manolo Marquez, also Tiwari's coach at FC Goa, envisions a bright future for him, indicating that the 23-year-old has the potential to become a top goalkeeper in India. The national team camp is merely the commencement of his journey to greatness.

"Receiving the call-up was surreal, a moment I’ve envisioned since I began my football journey. The years of hard work and sacrifices I’ve made make this moment significant for me, my family, and all who have supported me. It’s also a reminder that the hard work must continue," Tiwari concluded.