Top five players dropped from India's AFC Asian Cup squad

These individuals have the experience and prowess to create a difference, but are unlucky to not receive the final call for the AFC Asian Cup.

Earlier today, Igor Stimac announced India’s 26-member squad for the 2023 AFC Asian Cup in Qatar. In a surprising turn of events, several prominent players who initially garnered attention in the list of 50 probables released earlier this month have been omitted from the final line-up. The exclusion of these players, whose names had generated considerable buzz and speculation among football enthusiasts, has added an element of intrigue to the composition of the squad.

Before the team lands in Doha, Qatar to play in the 2023 AFC Asian Cup, we will examine the names of a few players who were left out of the final 26-man roster and who undoubtedly would have made a difference if they would have been included.

5. Mohammad Yasir

Mohammad Yasir, who hails from Manipur, stands out as one of the numerous elusive wingers who have grabbed the focus of fans. On March 25, 2021, he made his debut for the Indian Senior National Team under coach Igor Stimac in a match against Oman, which was surely a turning point in his career.

Yasir, since then, by bringing greater versatility to the team, demonstrated on numerous occasions why he deserves to play for the national team. His addition to the team for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup surely would have helped the Blue Tigers because Yasir is a kind of player who usually plays as a left-winger, but can also switch to a central role if needed.

4. Asish Rai

Asish Rai has been one of the most improved players for the national team under coach Stimac. He has also been dropped from the final squad that is traveling to Qatar for the AFC Asian Cup. Known for his stellar performances as a full-back, Rai has been a key figure, navigating through the lines with finesse and contributing significantly to Mohun Bagan’s success.

Asish Rai is also known as one of the most disciplined defenders in the country right now. His inclusion surely would have brought more defensive prowess. Moreover, he is a kind of a player who loves to move forward with the ball and support the team in attack by delivering high aerial balls towards the far post.

3. Chinglensana Singh

Chinglensana Singh has established himself as a formidable force in the heart of the Indian defense, signaling a promising future as a key centre-back for years to come under Stimac’s tactics. Sana also made his international debut on 25th March, 2021, against Oman alongside Yasir. His steady growth has been a topic of discussion and appreciation, highlighting the dedication and skill that he brings to the Indian football arena.

But the absence of his name from the 26-man roster also creates confusion among fans, as Sana is someone who can fit in different positions. He would have given a good amount of support to Jhingan playing as a centre-back and would have brought in more stability and composure while defending against stronger teams.

2. Naorem Roshan Singh

The 24-year-old boy from Manipur has been one of the most consistent full-backs, be it in the Indian Super League or the national team. The inclusion of Roshan in the team would undoubtedly have promised significant advantages for the Blue Tigers. His multifaceted contributions, from defensive solidity to dynamic involvement in the attacking third would have been a blessing to the side.

As a full-back, he not only fulfills defensive duties but also shoulders additional responsibilities, extending from active participation in attacking plays to contributing to the team’s build-up strategy. On numerous occasions, he has showcased his versatility by executing overlapping runs on the wing, effectively transitioning from defense to offense.

1. Nandhakumar Sekar

Since the last few competitions, Nandhakumar was a regular call-up to the Indian squad. The removal of his name from the final roster has caused a great deal of uncertainty and discussion among fans. It is more likely that Nandha has been dropped because of Udanta Singh’s addition to the team as both players operate from the same zone.

After registering a positive impression on everyone during the Super Cup and ISL 2022-23, Nandha was called up to the national team and was included in the final squad for the Intercontinental Cup. But for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup, his name has been dropped from the final roster. Was it a correct decision? Time will answer.

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