By Chris McAsey

India will competing in its first international competition since 2017 when it takes on Vietnam in a blockbuster first round at Thanh Long Sport Complex on Friday.

In an exciting development for the AFL Asia Cup, India has gone to great lengths to build a team from its diverse and vibrant domestic clubs.

Founder of the Australian Rules Football Association of India (ARFAI), Sudip Chakraborty says that Team India will comprise of players from 7 of the 11 states that play footy in India.

Team India will comprise of players from 7 of the 11 states that play footy in India.

‘A group of 40 players were shortlisted from the ARFAI National Championship in January 2024.

‘The squad participated at national camps during the year before the final 15 were selected.’

Sudip says while it’s difficult to gauge India’s prospects at the Asia Cup, there is some international experience in the squad.

Lots of new faces will be making their international debut for India.

’There will be lots of new faces making debut for India but Captain Mahesh Tirkey first represented India at the 2014 AFL International Cup.

‘He has been instrumental in leading his state team Jharkhand Crows to win multiple ARFAI (AFL India) National Championships over the years.

‘Team India will be looking forward to his experience to guide our relatively young  team.’

Footy has grown in leaps and bounds in India in recent years, with plenty of opportunities for young players to develop their skills.

‘Many of the squad have improved their performances since footy competitions returned in India in early 2023 after a three-year gap due to Covid,’ Sudip says.

‘This year we also have a double header with our annual National Championship in January 2025.

‘It’s been a very busy period for our volunteers to prepare for the nationals and the Asia Cup at the same time.’

Team India’s Head Coach is former international player and ARFAI committee member Sudhasil Mitra. His appointment marks the first time that an Indian coach will be in charge of Team India.

Sudhasil will be assisted by former Team India players Haaris Jamal and Jasim Akhtar.

To help Team India get to the AFL Asia Cup, please donate here.