The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has appointed Santosh Kashyap as the new head coach of the Indian senior women’s football team, replacing former international player Chaoba Devi. The 58-year-old, a seasoned coach with almost a decade of experience managing I-League clubs like Mohun Bagan, Aizawl FC, and Mumbai FC, will lead the national team into the upcoming SAFF Women’s Championships in Kathmandu, Nepal, from October 17 to 30.
Kashyap, who has also served as an assistant coach for NorthEast United FC and Odisha FC in the Indian Super League, expressed his gratitude to the AIFF for the opportunity to coach the national women’s team. He emphasized his focus on enhancing the team’s technical skills during the national camp.
“The current players are bright and talented, but technical improvement is crucial,” Kashyap stated in an AIFF release. “With the right tactics and decision-making, I am confident we can regain the SAFF Women’s Championship title.”
The 29-member squad will gather in Goa for a preparatory camp starting on September 20. Kashyap will be assisted by Priya PV, while Raghuvir Pravin Khanolkar will serve as the goalkeeper coach.
The full squad for the camp includes a blend of experienced and emerging players across positions, such as goalkeepers Elangbam Panthoi Chanu and Moirangthem Monalisha Devi, along with defenders Loitongbam Ashalata Devi and Dalima Chhibber.
Kashyap acknowledged the disappointment of the previous SAFF Championship performance but is optimistic about turning the team’s fortunes around with a strategic approach. “SAFF is just the beginning. I have bigger plans for this team, and I believe they can deliver,” he added.
The Indian team is aiming to reclaim their regional dominance as they prepare for the challenge in Nepal, marking a new chapter under Kashyap’s leadership.
(With inputs from PTI)