In a landmark achievement for football in Rajasthan, young talent Palash Barber from Udaipur has earned a historic national call-up. He has been selected to represent the Indian team at the inaugural 2026 SAFF Futsal Championship, scheduled to be held in Bangkok, Thailand, from January 13 to 26, 2026.
A Historic First for Rajasthan
This selection marks a significant milestone, as Palash becomes the first-ever player from Rajasthan to be chosen for the Indian national futsal team. The news has sent waves of pride across the state's football community. Expressing his elation, Dilip Singh Shekhawat, Secretary of the Rajasthan Football Association (RFA), stated that it is a moment of immense pride for the entire state to see a local boy break into the national setup.
The 14-member Indian squad will see Palash taking on the crucial role of a pivot. The team's preparations were bolstered by a month-long training camp organized by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) in Bengaluru last month. The team will be led by head coach Reza Kordi.
Football Runs in the Family
Palash's selection is a testament to his dedication and skill, and perhaps a legacy continued. His father, Kanhaiya Barber, was also a national-level football player and currently serves as a physical education teacher in Udaipur's education department. The apple, it seems, has not fallen far from the tree.
Overwhelming Support from the Football Fraternity
The achievement has been celebrated by the who's who of Rajasthan football. RFA president Manvendra Singh Jasol, Rajasthan Women Football chairperson Roshni Tak, treasurer Kailash Khatik, and Udaipur District Football secretary Shakeel Ahmed, along with all office bearers and former players of the association, have extended their heartfelt congratulations to Palash for his stellar achievement.
As the young footballer from Udaipur packs his bags for the national duty, he carries with him the hopes and dreams of an entire state, ready to make his mark on the international futsal stage in Bangkok next year.
