Five Indian players to watch out for in Durand Cup 2026
The oldest competition in Asia will kick off on 25th July
The 135th edition of the Durand Cup is set to begin on 25th July with a new chapter in making. Durand Cup is the most decorated and oldest football competition in Asia, which was started way before the 1900. The tournament has seen clubs like East Bengal, Mohun Bagan and also many other clubs across the globe be a part of the legacy.
The stakes are high, and the group stage has officially been revealed. Many players will be looking to give their all and make a name for themselves in the tournament, while several established stars will aim to make an immediate impact in the Durand Cup.
In this article we take a look at the top five Indian players to watch out in Durand Cup 2026.
MD Sanan (Jamshedpur FC)
The 22 years old left winger from Jamshedpur FC is a player who can impress in the Durand Cup 2026. He played 13 ISL matches last season with the Men of Steel scoring 3 goals. Sanan also got the opportunity to represent the Indian National Football Team in the Unity Cup 2026 in UK.
A proper attacking left winger for Jamshedpur FC who can score goals and create chances with his pace and direct attacking approach. He will most certainly be a key player for Jamshedpur FC heading into the tournament and is a player to watchout for.
Phrangki Buam (Shillong Lajong FC)
Phrangki Buam is the heartbeat of Shillong Lajongโs attack as he is very comfortable operating as an attacking midfielder or as a winger. The forward had a wonderful IFL 2025-26 season with Shillong Lajong FC as he was one of the standout players of the entire league.
Buam can unlock opponentsโ defences with his vision, close ball control, and intelligent passing.
Buamโs creativity is the main quality that makes Sana a great attacking option for Shillong lajong. Everbrightson Sana is a great forward who thrives inside the box and converts the crosses from Buam.
He can also be a threat to opponents. Buamโs accurate deliveries and Sanaโs finishing make them a formidable duo. Their contrasting qualities complement each other well, making Shillong a very attractive side.
Pramveer (NorthEast United FC)
NorthEast United FC recently signed Pramveer from Punjab FC after his strong season with the Shers. The talented 19-year-old centre-back recently represented the India National Team against Tajikistan.
Being one of the most promising centre-back in the country, he possesses the quality to dictate the game from the back and also gives the much-needed versatility to the backline. Moving into the Durand Cup 2026, it will be very interesting to see how Juan Pedro Benali uses Pramveer.
Due to his ability and the quality, he possesses, he is among the players to watch out for in Durand Cup 2026.
Also Read: Durand Cup 2026 fixtures announced as Kolkata Derby set to open tournament
Edmund Lalrindika (East Bengal FC)
Edmund Lalrindika is one of the most important players for East Bengal FC and was very well in the last ISL season. Under Oscar Bruzon, he grew massively as we saw the glimpses of the quality that he possesses.
Edmund is a very intelligent forward who has the ability to score goals and can also link up play as a second striker for his team.
Along with Youssef Ezzejjari last season, he often came in the second striker position, where he played as a shadow forward and impressed massively with his skills. In the Durand Cup 2026, he can be more effective under Antonio Lopez Habas for East Bengal FC if used effectively.
Sahal Abdul Samad (Mohun Bagan SG)
Sahal Abdul Samad is one of the most technically gifted players in Indian football who can unlock low-block teams very easily with his abilities. Alongside Anirudh Thapa and Apuia, Abdul Samad is a treat to watch.
A creative playmaker, his last ISL season was a mixed one. He had a slow start but finished the campaign strongly, producing some impressive performances in the final few matches. His composure, creativity, and flair make him a game changer in the attacking third.
He will be a key player for the Green and Maroon Brigade in the Durand Cup 2026.
When will the Durand Cup 2026 begin?
The 135th edition of the Durand Cup is scheduled to kick off on 25 July 2026, featuring clubs from across India competing for one of Asian footballโs oldest trophies.
How many teams are participating in Durand Cup 2026?
A total of 24 teams are going to be a part of the 135th edition of Durand Cup.
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Rohit Mistri is a sports journalist from Kolkata with over two years of experience in the field. He has extensively covered Indian football, including major tournaments such as the Calcutta Football League and the Indian Super League. His work spans on-ground reporting, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling, along with interviews of prominent sporting personalities. Rohit brings strong communication skills and a deep passion for sports narratives to everything he writes.