A fresh wave of opportunity has arrived for a handful of footballers as they step into the senior national camp for the very first time. Under new Indian football head coach Khalid Jamil, four players including defender Alex Saji, Sunil Benchamin, Muhammed Uvais and forward Manvir Singh are experiencing the honour of wearing the India jersey at the senior level.

The Blue Tigers are currently preparing for the CAFA Nations Cup which will take place this month. India face hosts Tajikistan (August 29) first up followed by Iran (September 1) and Afghanistan (September 4) in Group B.

Jamil began his first camp with the Blue Tigers on August 15. While Benchamin was included in the original 22-player list, Uvais, Singh and goalkeeper Albino Gomes were added to the camp on August 18.

For Manvir Singh, the call up is nothing short of a long-awaited dream. Singh, who has represented India at the youth level and previously played under Jamil at Jamshedpur FC, wants to make the most of his opportunity.

“As a striker in India, I know how difficult it is to get a chance. I got that during the Durand Cup and gave my best,” he said to the-aiff.com.

“Now I feel like I have another chance, and I cannot afford to miss it. I have played under the coach (Khalid Jamil), and he knows my capabilities. I’ve just promised myself that if he gives me a chance, I have to take it, I must repay his trust.”

Defender Uvais admitted he was surprised upon being called up. Initially left out of the preparatory camp squad, the former Jamshedpur FC player feels his Durand Cup displays for Punjab FC convinced Jamil otherwise.

Uvais experienced a breakthrough season with the Men of Steel in ISL 2024-25, proving to be one of Jamshedpur FC’s key players in their run to the semis.

“I think my performances with Punjab FC played a big role (in the maiden national call-up). I gave my best there, and I’m glad it helped me earn this opportunity,” said Uvais.

“It’s surreal to be called up to the national camp. Back home, everyone is proud.”

For goalkeeper Albino Gomes, the recall has been emotional. Once considered among the brightest prospects, injuries derailed much of his career. Now 31, he finds himself back in the national frame after nine long years.

Gomes was one of the standout keepers in the ISL 2024-25 season, part of the team that reached the semis under Jamil.

“Just to see my name on the list of campers is a big achievement for me. I have suffered a lot with injuries,” Gomes said.

“Of course, I will try everything possible to make it back and get my debut, but whether that happens or not, I am happy to be making such progress one step at a time.”