Khalid Jamil Prepares India for CAFA Nations Cup and Asian Cup Qualifiers

Newly-appointed India head coach Khalid Jamil clarified the omission of renowned striker Sunil Chhetri from the CAFA Nations Cup camp on Sunday. Jamil emphasized that the upcoming tournament would set the stage for crucial Asian Cup qualifying matches in October, where Chhetri remains pivotal to the team's strategy.

Khalid Jamil, succeeding Manolo Marquez earlier this month, announced a 35-member squad for the CAFA Nations Cup, excluding Chhetri. However, Jamil indicated that Chhetri is expected to play a key role in the Asian Cup qualifying matches against Singapore in October.

Jamil seeks to utilize the CAFA Nations Cup, India's first participation, as a preparation platform to compete against formidable teams like Tajikistan and Iran. He stressed the importance of player fitness and team unity, requesting clubs to release players timely for national duties.

(With inputs from agencies.)