Ryan Williams and Abneet Bharti Join Indian National Team
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has made headlines by calling up two players of Indian origin, Ryan Williams and Abneet Bharti, for the senior national team camp. This decision comes as the Blue Tigers gear up for their AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Bangladesh on November 18, signaling a new direction for Indian football.
Ryan Williams: A Journey from Australia to India
Ryan Williams, a 31-year-old winger currently playing for Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League, has recently acquired his Indian passport after a year-long process. His journey to represent India began when he expressed his interest through his teammate, Sunil Chhetri, who communicated this to AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey.
Williams has a notable history with the Australian national teams, having played at the under-20 and under-23 levels. He participated in the 2012 AFC U19 Championship and the 2013 FIFA U20 World Cup. In May 2019, he made his senior international debut for Australia in a friendly against South Korea.
His connection to India is significant; his mother hails from an Anglo-Indian family in Mumbai. Khalid Jamil, his former club coach and now the head coach of the Indian national team, has also been instrumental in facilitating Williams’ transition to the Indian squad.
Abneet Bharti: A Rising Star from Nepal
Abneet Bharti, 27, is a defender who currently plays for Academia del Balompie Boliviano in Bolivia. Unlike Williams, Bharti already holds an Indian passport, having been identified by the Indian embassy in Brazil. He is eligible to represent both India and Nepal, his birthplace.
Bharti was previously called up to the India under-16 national camp ahead of the 2015 SAFF U16 Championship but did not make the final squad. His recent selection for the senior team reflects his perseverance and dedication to his football career abroad. His inclusion is expected to enhance the Indian defense, which has faced challenges in recent matches.
AIFF’s Strategic Move
The AIFF’s decision to include Williams and Bharti is a strategic effort to expand the national talent pool by engaging players with Indian heritage from around the world. This initiative aligns with the federation’s commitment to improving the competitiveness of the Indian football team.
Moreover, this move complements ongoing government initiatives aimed at allowing Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) cardholders to represent India in sports. Although the policy is still under review, the AIFF’s actions demonstrate a proactive approach to integrating overseas talent.
Impact on Indian Football
The inclusion of these two players has sparked renewed optimism among fans and stakeholders in Indian football. With the qualification for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup already out of reach, this initiative offers a timely boost to the morale of the team and its supporters. It also lays the groundwork for a more robust and dynamic Indian football team in the future.
FAQs
Who are Ryan Williams and Abneet Bharti?
Ryan Williams is a 31-year-old winger from Australia who plays for Bengaluru FC, while Abneet Bharti is a 27-year-old defender from Nepal currently playing in Bolivia. Both have been called up to the Indian national team.
Why is the AIFF calling up players of Indian origin?
The AIFF aims to broaden the talent pool by including players of Indian heritage from abroad, enhancing the competitiveness of the national team and tapping into international experience.
What is the significance of this call-up for Indian football?
The inclusion of Williams and Bharti represents a strategic shift in Indian football, fostering hope for a stronger future and improving the team’s performance on the international stage.
Conclusion
The call-up of Ryan Williams and Abneet Bharti marks an important development in Indian football, reflecting the AIFF’s commitment to enhancing the national team’s depth and competitiveness. As the team prepares for upcoming challenges, this initiative could pave the way for a more successful future in international football.
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