New Delhi, Sep 16 (PTI) – The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has announced the appointment of Santosh Kashyap as the new head coach of the national senior women’s football team, taking over from former international player Chaoba Devi. This strategic move comes as the team gears up for the upcoming SAFF Women’s Championships scheduled to take place in Kathmandu, Nepal, from October 17 to 30.

Kashyap, a seasoned football coach with nearly a decade of experience in the I-League, has managed prominent clubs such as Mohun Bagan, Aizawl FC, and Mumbai FC. His rich background includes stints as assistant coach with NorthEast United FC and most recently with Odisha FC in the Indian Super League. Joining him in this new venture are Priya PV as the assistant coach and Raghuvir Pravin Khanolkar as the goalkeeper coach.

The 29-member squad selected for the national camp will commence their intensive training in Goa from September 20. This preparation period is crucial as it aims to enhance the team’s technical abilities and overall performance for the championships.

Expressing his gratitude, Kashyap remarked, “Coaching the National Team is always an honour. I am thankful to AIFF President Shri Kalyan Chaubey, the technical committee, and other senior members for this opportunity.” He emphasized his belief in the potential of the current players, highlighting their talent and the need for technical improvement. Kashyap is confident that his guidance during the national camp will provide the necessary input to elevate the team’s game.

Reflecting on the previous SAFF Women’s Championship, Kashyap acknowledged that past results did not meet expectations. However, he remains optimistic about reclaiming the title this year through strategic tactics, a focused approach, and smart decision-making. He stressed the importance of not underestimating any opponent, given the competitive nature of international football. “SAFF is only the first step,” he noted, hinting at more ambitious plans for the team’s future.

The list of 29 players called up for the Indian senior women’s team camp includes:

**Goalkeepers:**
– Elangbam Panthoi Chanu
– Moirangthem Monalisha Devi
– Payal Ramesh Basude

**Defenders:**
– Aruna Bag
– Dalima Chhibber
– Jabamani Tudu
– Juli Kishan
– Loitongbam Ashalata Devi
– Mousumi Murmu
– Ngangbam Sweety Devi
– Sanju
– Sorokhaibam Ranjana Chanu
– Wangkhem Linthoingambi Devi
– Yumlembam Pakpi Devi

**Midfielders:**
– Anjana Thapa
– Anju Tamang
– Dangmei Grace
– Hemam Shilky Devi
– Karishma Purushottam Shirvoikar
– Karthika Angamuthu
– Manisha
– Naorem Priyangka Devi
– Nongmaithem Ratanbala Devi
– Sangita Basfore
– Soumya Guguloth

**Forwards:**
– Jyoti
– Ngangom Bala Devi
– Rimpa Haldar
– Sandhiya Ranganathan

This comprehensive preparation and expert coaching staff aim to propel the Indian women’s football team towards a successful campaign in the SAFF Women’s Championships and beyond.