In a significant development for Indian football, Australian-born forward Ryan Williams has been included in the national team squad for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Bangladesh. However, his much-anticipated debut for the Blue Tigers hangs in the balance, pending crucial clearance from Australian football authorities.
The NOC Hurdle for International Clearance
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) confirmed on Saturday that while Williams will travel with the team to Dhaka, his inclusion in the final matchday squad remains subject to receiving a No Objection Certificate from Football Australia. This mandatory document must be followed by subsequent approvals from FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) before the 32-year-old can officially represent India.
Williams recently completed the formal process of surrendering his Australian citizenship to obtain an Indian passport, making him eligible for national team selection. This administrative milestone represents the first step in his international transition, though the sporting clearance remains pending.
Football Heritage and International Experience
The Bengaluru FC forward brings considerable pedigree to the Indian setup, having previously represented Australia at junior levels and even making a senior team appearance in a non-competitive match against South Korea. His football lineage traces back through generations, with his maternal grandfather Lincoln Grostate having made significant contributions to Indian football during his playing days.
Grostate established himself as a formidable force while playing for Central Railway SC, Tatas, and Bombay in the Santosh Trophy, famously leading a team that once defeated the mighty Bengal side featuring nine international players. The football tradition continues in the family, with both of Williams' brothers also pursuing professional careers, including Rhys who has represented Australia.
Coach Jamil's Squad for Crucial Qualifier
Head coach Khalid Jamil has named a 23-member squad that traveled to Dhaka for the crucial AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 qualifier scheduled for November 18. The Blue Tigers, who had been training in Bengaluru since November 6, arrived in Dhaka on Saturday evening to acclimatize and prepare for the important fixture.
The squad features a mix of experienced campaigners and emerging talents across all positions:
- 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
- Forwards: Edmund Lalrindika, Lallianzuala Chhangte, Mohammed Sanan, Rahim Ali, Ryan Williams and Vikram Partap Singh
The inclusion of Williams adds an interesting dimension to India's attacking options, provided the necessary international clearances come through in time for the match. His potential availability could significantly boost India's prospects in the crucial qualifier as they seek to advance in the AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualification process.
