Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 17: India’s newly-appointed head coach Khalid Jamil has clarified why legendary striker Sunil Chhetri has not been included in the national camp for the upcoming CAFA Nations Cup in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

Jamil, who replaced Manolo Marquez this month, unveiled a 35-member probables list, but the absence of Chhetri, 41, raised eyebrows. Explaining the decision, Jamil said, “He (Chhetri) is not there in this camp because this tournament is essentially preparation for our Asian Cup qualifiers. I also want to try out a few other players during this FIFA window. I spoke to him about this. Sunil is a legend, and the door will always remain open for him.”

India will face Tajikistan (Aug 29), Iran (Sept 1), and Afghanistan (Sept 4) in Group B, before the third-place play-off and final on September 8.

The national camp began on Saturday with 22 players, while another 13—currently playing in the Durand Cup—will join soon. The AIFF has urged clubs to release players for the tournament.

Chhetri, who had announced retirement after the Kuwait game in June 2024, made a comeback in March this year against Maldives on Marquez’s request. Since then, he has played four matches, scoring once in India’s 3-0 victory over Maldives. However, India’s recent results, including a 0-1 loss to Hong Kong and a 0-2 defeat to Thailand, have put pressure on the squad ahead of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers.

Calling the CAFA Nations Cup an “ideal test”, Jamil added, “We may be treating these as preparatory games, but this is serious business. We want only 100% fit players. Whoever performs will be selected.”

On his appointment, Jamil expressed gratitude, saying, “It has always been my dream to serve the country. The task ahead is challenging, but I am thankful to AIFF for this opportunity.”