Mizoram's Cindy included in India squad for U-17 AFC Women's Asian Cup Qualifier

The team will be playing against the host country Kyrgyz Republic in Bishkek, the capital and largest city of Kyrgyzstan, starting from April 24th.

In Group F of the Women's U17 AFC Asian Cup Qualifier Round 1, India (referred to as The Young Tigresses) is grouped with Kyrgyzstan, the hosts, and Myanmar, reported Northeast News.

Cindy, hailing from Aizawl and born into a football-loving family, has participated in several state and national-level tournaments, including the renowned Subroto Cup and the 2021 Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG).

In 2021, she gained recognition for completing the "keepy-uppy online challenge" while wearing high heels.

Her father and coach Lalbiaksanga Colney taught her the tricks of the trade, and Cindy has always aimed to challenge the patriarchal norms of society.

“I wanted to show that everyone can play football whether it is a boy or a girl,” stated Cindy to EastMojo.

The team's first match will be against the host country on April 26, followed by a match against Myanmar on April 28.

The head coach of The Young Tigresses, PV Priya, stated that the team has been practicing and residing at the Emerald Heights International School in the city.

Recently, Lokendra Verma, Secretary of the District Football Association in Indore, honored the team on Monday.

The team roster comprises of several players in different positions. The forwards include Kajal Kumari, Shilji Shaji, and Pooja. 

The midfielders are Nongmeikapam Shibani Devi, Lourembam Menaka Devi, Shivani Toppo, Babita Kumari, Cindy Remruatpuii Colney, Shveta Rani, Sulanjana Raul, Remi Thokchom, and Lalita Boypai. 

The defenders in the team are Yendrembam Thoi Thoi Devi, Toijam Thoibisana Chanu, Heena Khatun, Vikshit Bara, Juhi Singh, Akhila Rajan, Arya Anilkumar, and Irom Sonibia Devi. 

The team also has three goalkeepers - Sarangthem Khambi Chanu, Anisha Oraon, and Khushi Kumari.

A significant proportion of the squad is comprised of players hailing from Northeast India.