India name 23-member squad for AFC U20 Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers

India have named a 23-player squad for the AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers in Tashkent. The Blue Colts will face Syria, hosts Uzbekistan and Bangladesh in Group B after playing four friendlies earlier this month

Hyderabad: India Under-20 men’s team head coach Mahesh Gawali has named his 23-player squad for the AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers, which will be played in Tashkent from August 31 to September 6.

From the previously announced 30-player squad ahead of the Singapore friendlies, eight players were released for either technical or injury-related considerations — Shuhaid Koya Thangal PS, Arshvir Singh, Ashik Adhikari, Dallalmuon Gangte, Levis Zangminlun, Agastya Bhat, Nirupam Gowda H and Yohaan Benjamin. Meanwhile, Daniyal Makakmayum has joined the squad.

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More than 100 players were assessed since the trials began in Bengaluru in June, before the final 23 were selected. Gawali’s side played four friendly matches earlier this month, defeating Singapore twice (3-0 and 1-0), drawing 0-0 with Yemen, and securing a 1-0 victory in the second match against the West Asians.

The Blue Colts will arrive in Tashkent on Thursday afternoon. They will face Syria on August 31 at 16:30 IST, hosts Uzbekistan on September 3 at 19:30 IST, and conclude their Group B campaign against Bangladesh on September 6 at 16:30 IST.

The group winners and the seven best runners-up across all eight groups will qualify for the AFC Under-20 Asian Cup China 2027.

The Indian team:

Goalkeepers: Jaskaran Dub, Pranav Sundarraman, Suraj Singh Aheibam.

Defenders: Asher Rebello, Bungson Singh Takhellambam, Karish Soram, Malemngamba Singh Thokchom, Sumit Sharma Brahmacharimayum, Yaipharemba Chingakham.

Midfielders: Aniket Yadav, Danny Meitei Laishram, Md Arbash, Rishi Singh Ningthoukhongjam, Rishikanta Meitei Laishram, Samson Ahongshangbam, Shami Singamayum.

Forwards: Daniyal Makakmayum, Gunleiba Wangkheirakpam, Hateem Ali, Omang Dodum, Prashan Jajo, Rohen Singh Chaphamayum, Vishal Yadav.

Head coach: Mahesh Gawali

Assistant coach: MG Ramachandran

Goalkeeping coach: Parshuram Salwadi

Strength and conditioning coach: Anugrah Suresh