Sunil Shehtri, a 40-year-old striker, has made a surprising return to the Indian national team after being called up for the FIFA Day matches in March.
The veteran forward had announced his international retirement nine months ago following India’s match against Kuwait in the second round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers (Asia Zone). After 19 years of dedicated service, he chose to step away to focus on his family life, though he continued playing for Bengaluru FC in the Indian Super League.
However, with India struggling throughout 2024—failing to secure a single victory and scoring only three goals in their last six matches—head coach Manolo Márquez saw no choice but to recall Sunil. The decision underscores the team’s urgent need for attacking reinforcements, and Sunil’s experience could prove invaluable at this critical moment.
India is set to play two matches in March: a friendly against the Maldives on March 21, followed by a crucial 2027 AFC Asian Cup third-round qualifier against Bangladesh on March 25.
Credit Photo : AIFF
