In a significant development impacting Indian football’s ongoing discussion about Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) and foreign-born players, the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has taken a decisive step to expand its player pool. Recent reports indicate that Ryan Williams, a former Australian international currently playing for Bengaluru FC, and Abneet Bharti, a defender born in Nepal, have been included in the senior national team camp in Bengaluru ahead of the AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Bangladesh.
This selection coincides with a period of transition for the national team, which is in the process of rebuilding following its exclusion from the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey has expressed interest in scouting Indian-origin players globally to enhance the team’s strength, and this move signifies the first tangible action towards that objective.
AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey has personally confirmed the inclusion of both players and assured that efforts are underway to expedite the necessary paperwork procedures promptly.
Ryan Williams, as per ESPN reports, is awaiting a No-Objection Certificate from Football Australia, anticipated to be issued within the week. The winger, who earned a single cap for the Australian national team in 2019, has fulfilled India’s eligibility criteria over the past year, which required him to renounce his Australian citizenship due to restrictions on dual nationality.
Williams’ connection to India stems from his mother, who hails from an Anglo-Indian background in Mumbai. Since joining Bengaluru FC in 2023 after departing Perth Glory, Williams has relocated his family to India. His on-field attributes include speed, direct attacking play, and clinical finishing – qualities that India has been seeking. With the new head coach Khalid Jamil aiming to bolster the team’s offensive prowess, Williams could offer a valuable addition.
Regarding Abneet Bharti, his call-up is on a trial basis, with his future with the national team contingent on his performance during the camp. Bharti holds an Indian passport and is eligible to represent both India and Nepal. His football journey has been unconventional, starting at Shastri FC in Delhi before venturing to Singapore at 14 to join Geylang International’s academy. He has since played professionally in various countries before landing at Academia del Balompie Boliviano in Bolivia, with a brief stint in Indian football with Kerala Blasters.
Given India’s defensive requirements and the search for a long-term partner for Anwar Ali as Sandesh Jhingan ages, Bharti’s diverse experience in different football cultures presents an intriguing option.
The national camp is set to commence in Bengaluru on Thursday ahead of the match against Bangladesh on November 18. If Williams and Bharti secure spots in the final squad, it would signify a significant effort to implement the National Sports Policy 2025 vision by integrating Indian-origin players into the system to uplift the national team from its current challenges.