India Names 50-Member Squad for AFC Asian Cup 2023

Senior India National Team head coach Igor Stimac on Tuesday announced a 50-member list of probables for the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023, set to take place in Doha, next month.

The Blue Tigers have been drawn in Group B, alongside Australia (January 13), Uzbekistan (January 18), and Syria (January 23). The top two teams from each group, along with the four best third-placed finishers (out of six) will make their way into the Round of 16.

The 50-member probables list includes a mix of experienced and young players. The squad is headlined by captain Sunil Chhetri, who is India’s all-time leading goalscorer. Other experienced players in the squad include Sandesh Jhingan, Pritam Kotal, and Brandon Fernandes.

The young players in the squad include the likes of Suresh Singh Wangjam, Liston Colaco, and Ishan Pandita. These players will be looking to make a mark on the international stage and cement their place in the team.

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Stimac will be looking to put together a strong squad that can challenge for the title. The Blue Tigers have been drawn in a tough group, but they will be confident of their chances if they can play to their potential.

Here are some of the key takeaways from the 50-member probables list:

• Chhetri is the only player in the squad who has played in an AFC Asian Cup before. He will be looking to lead India to their first title since 2011.
• Jhingan is the only other player in the squad who has played in more than 50 international matches. He will be a key player in defense.
• Wangjam, Colaco, and Pandita are three of the most exciting young players in India. They will be looking to make their mark on the tournament.

India will begin their AFC Asian Cup campaign against Australia on January 13.