Injury blow for the Indian senior women's team ahead of AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026

Anju Tamang ruled out ahead of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup

India have been forced into a late change ahead of the continental showpiece, as midfielder Anju Tamang has been ruled out of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 due to injury.

In her place, forward Karishma Shirvoikar has been drafted into the 26-member squad, adding fresh attacking impetus to the Blue Tigresses’ campaign.

The 26-member squad had been announced earlier as the Indian senior women’s team geared up, as they will take charge of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 in Australia. The Blue Tigresses are drawn in Group C, as they are set to begin their campaign against Vietnam.

Karishma Shirvoikar will replace Anju Tamang

As the team announced earlier, now before the start of the Asian Cup India has suffered a setback, as midfielder Anju Tamang ruled out of the tournament due to injury.

The dynamic midfielder has been a key player for the team with her great work rate and experience. In the absence of Anju Tamang, forward Karishma Shirvoikar will replace Anju in India senior women’s team 26-member squad.

Her absence comes as a significant blow to team preparations, as she was expected to play an important role in the middle of the park for the Indian senior women’s team in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

Karishma’s inclusion adds attacking depth and versatility in the attack as she will be offering good outputs.

The Indian senior women’s team will now look to adjust their squad as its plans gear up further. Under the guidance of head coach Amelia Valverde, Indian senior women’s team will aim to conquer the AFC Women’s Asian Cup.

India’s 26-member squad

Goalkeepers: Panthoi Chanu Elangbam, Shreya Hooda, Sowmiya Narayanasamy.

Defenders: Astam Oraon, Juli Kishan, Martina Thokchom, Nirmala Devi Phanjoubam, Sanju, Sarita Yumnam, Shilky Devi Hemam, Sushmita Lepcha, Sweety Devi Ngangbam.

Midfielders: Aveka Singh, Babina Devi Lisham, Jasoda Munda, Sanfida Nongrum, Sangita Basfore.

Forwards: Grace Dangmei, Kaviya Pakkirisamy, Lynda Kom Serto, Malavika P, Manisha Kalyan, Pyari Xaxa, Rimpa Haldar, Soumya Guguloth, Karishma Shirvoikar.

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