The Indian national football team is set to return to action during the March international break, with Sunil Chhetri making a sensational comeback to the Blue Tigers' squad after reversing his decision to retire from international football.

The Bengaluru FC captain had previously announced that he would not play for India again, having played his last international game against Kuwait in June last year.

Since his departure, the team has undergone several changes including the change of the head coach, with FC Goa’s Manolo Marquez replacing Igor Štimac. However, under Marquez, India are yet to register a win, recording three draws and one defeat in four matches.

"The qualification for the Asian Cup is very crucial for us. Given the importance of the tournament and the matches ahead, I discussed with Sunil Chhetri about making a comeback to strengthen the National Team. He agreed, and so we have included him in the squad,” Marquez said.

Chhetri’s return comes at a pivotal moment ahead of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Third Round. India will play a friendly against the Maldives on March 19 in Shillong before hosting Bangladesh at the same venue in their opening qualifier.

While Chhetri’s inclusion is a major boost for the team, Marquez has made a surprising decision to leave out Bengaluru FC goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, who has been omitted from the 26-member squad, announced on Thursday.

India squad ahead of March international break:

Goalkeepers: Amrinder Singh, Gurmeet Singh, Vishal Kaith.

Defenders: Asish Rai, Boris Singh Thangjam, Chinglensana Singh Konsham, Hmingthanmawia, Mehtab Singh, Rahul Bheke, Roshan Singh Naorem, Sandesh Jhingan, Subhasish Bose.

Midfielders: Ashique Kuruniyan, Ayush Dev Chhetri, Brandon Fernandes, Brison Fernandes, Jeakson Singh Thounaojam, Lalengmawia, Liston Colaco, Mahesh Singh Naorem, Suresh Singh Wangjam.

Forwards: Sunil Chhetri, Farukh Choudhary, Irfan Yadwad, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Manvir Singh.

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2024-2025 Sunil Chhetri