Australia-born forward Ryan Williams, who recently secured his Indian passport, has been named in India’s 23-member squad for the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Final Round Group C match against Bangladesh in Dhaka on November 18. His selection marks one of the most significant inclusions for the Blue Tigers in recent years, as India continue experimenting with their attacking options under new head coach Khalid Jamil.
Williams, 31, has spent most of his professional career across leagues in Australia and the United Kingdom, turning out for clubs such as Perth Glory, Portsmouth, Oxford United and Rotherham United. His pathway to Indian eligibility opened through his mother, who hails from Kerala. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) completed his documentation process earlier this month, enabling him to receive his Indian passport.
However, while Williams will travel with the squad to Dhaka, his availability for the match remains subject to an important final step, the receipt of a No-Objection Certificate from Football Australia, followed by formal approvals from FIFA and the AFC. Only then can he be cleared to take the field.
India, who have been holding a preparatory camp in Bengaluru since 6 November, are looking to reinforce their forward line after a series of inconsistent displays in recent international fixtures. The team will fly to Dhaka on Saturday evening, hoping to begin their qualifying campaign on a stronger note.
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The squad features a balanced mix of experienced names such as Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Sandesh Jhingan, Rahul Bheke and Suresh Singh Wangjam, alongside emerging players like Mahit Sandhu, Brison Fernandes and Mohammed Sanan.
The forward line, in particular, carries significant depth with the presence of Lallianzuala Chhangte, Vikram Partap Singh and Rahim Ali. Williams’ potential addition is expected to bring pace, overseas experience and versatility to India’s attacking structure.
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Hrithik Tiwari, Sahil
Defenders: Akash Mishra, Anwar Ali, Bikash Yumnam, Hmingthanmawia Ralte, Jay Gupta, Pramveer, Rahul Bheke, Sandesh Jhingan
Midfielders: Brison Fernandes, Lalremtluanga Fanai, Macarton Louis Nickson, Mahesh Singh Naorem, Nikhil Prabhu, Suresh Singh Wangjam
Forwards: Edmund Lalrindika, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Mohammed Sanan, Rahim Ali, Ryan Williams, Vikram Partap Singh
Coaching Staff: Head coach Khalid Jamil; Assistant coach Mahesh Gawali; Goalkeeping coach Feroz Sherif; Strength and conditioning coach Chelston Pinto.
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