In an exciting development for Indian women's football, head coach Biby Thomas Muttath has unveiled the 23-player squad set to represent the nation in the inaugural SAFF U16 Women’s Championship. The tournament is scheduled to take place in Lalitpur, Nepal, from March 1 to 10, 2024.
The meticulously chosen squad emerged from a rigorous selection trial, with the probables undergoing intensive training in Goa. The final roster features a blend of talented players, symbolizing the future of Indian women's football.
Departing for Nepal on February 27, the Young Tigresses are poised to make their mark in this historic U16 edition, building on India's successful campaigns in the SAFF U15 Women’s Championship in 2018 and 2019, where they triumphed over Bangladesh in the finals.
The 23-member squad comprises:
**Goalkeepers:**
1. Konjengbam Tamphasana Devi
2. Munni
3. Surajmuni Kumari
**Defenders:**
4. Amrita Ghosh
5. Bonifila Shullai
6. Divyani Linda
7. Elizabed Lakra
8. Gauri
9. Rheanna Liz Jacob
10. Rupashree Munda
11. Sarangthem Alena Devi
**Midfielders:**
12. Anita Dungdung
13. Anushka Kumari
14. Anwita Raghuraman
15. H Yashica
16. Longajam Nira Chanu
17. Ritu Badaik
18. Shveta Rani
19. Thanda Moni Baskey
**Forwards:**
20. Gurleen Kaur
21. Gurnaz Kaur
22. Neha Saji
23. Pearl Fernandes
Under the leadership of coach Biby Thomas Muttath, the team is geared up for the challenge, and expectations are high for a stellar performance.
**India’s Schedule at the SAFF U16 Women’s Championship:**
- March 1, 14:45 IST: India vs Bhutan
- March 5, 14:45 IST: Bangladesh vs India
- March 7, 14:45 IST: India vs Nepal
- March 10, 14:45 IST: Final (top two teams from round-robin stage)
All matches are slated to unfold at the Chyasal Stadium in Lalitpur, promising an exciting showcase of emerging talent and fierce competition in women’s football.
