Khalid Jamil's first camp as the newly appointed India head coach has commenced, but not without its share of challenges. While 22 players have already reported, a significant contingent of 11 players are still missing from the training camp. These absences stem from a couple of key factors, primarily related to club commitments and the coach's strategic decisions for upcoming tournaments.
The most prominent reason for the delayed arrival of several players is their involvement in the ongoing Durand Cup with their respective clubs. With the tournament reaching its final stages, these clubs are understandably reluctant to release their key players until their Durand Cup campaigns conclude. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has urged clubs to release national team players for the CAFA Nations Cup. It remains to be seen how quickly these players will be able to join the national camp once their club duties are over.
Adding to the list of absentees is veteran striker Sunil Chhetri. Jamil has clarified that Chhetri's omission from the CAFA Nations Cup squad is a strategic decision. The coach views the CAFA Nations Cup as crucial preparation for the Asian Cup qualifying round matches against Singapore in October. Jamil wants to use this opportunity to test other players and explore different combinations within the team. He has assured that the "door is always open" for Chhetri, acknowledging his legendary status and importance to Indian football.
The absence of these players presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Jamil. On one hand, he has to prepare the team for the CAFA Nations Cup without a full complement of players. This means he has less time to implement his strategies and build cohesion within the squad. On the other hand, it allows him to assess other players who might not have gotten a chance otherwise. This could potentially unearth new talent and create more competition for places in the team. Several familiar names have also been recalled, including Akash Mishra (after a long injury lay-off), Rahul KP, Danish Farooq, and Vikram Partap Singh. Rahim Ali and Irfan Yadwad return after missing recent camps, while winger Jithin MS earns his much-anticipated first call-up.
Jamil has emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation between the national team and the clubs. He has requested clubs to release players on time to ensure their adequate participation in the preparatory camp. He also acknowledged that he needs time to adjust to the team and vice versa. "My doors are always open to everybody. Whoever is doing well will be selected,” he stated, highlighting his commitment to selecting players based on merit.
India is set to participate in the CAFA Nations Cup, where they will face Tajikistan, Iran, and Afghanistan in Group B. Their campaign begins against Tajikistan on August 29, followed by matches against Iran on September 1 and Afghanistan on September 4. The third-place match and the final are scheduled for September 8. This tournament marks India's first-ever participation in the CAFA Nations Cup and provides a valuable opportunity to compete against strong opponents.
