Bengal has named its squad for the upcoming Santosh Trophy, India's oldest state-level national football championship. The squad includes 23 players and is led by coach Sanjoy Sen, who is working to bring Bengal back to its former glory in the competition. Bengal has been one of the most successful teams in Santosh Trophy history.
The Bengal squad
The squad features two goalkeepers: Somnath Dutta and Gaurav Sau. The defence line includes Sujit Sadhu, Madan Mandi, Jewel Ahmed Majumdar, Chaku Mandi, Marshal Kisku, Suman De, and Bikram Pradhan. In midfield, Bengal has selected Biki Thapa, Tanmoy Das, Prashanta Das, Shamal Besra, Sayon Bandyopadhyay, Bijoy Murmu, Akib Nawab, and Akash Hemram. The forwards named for the challenge are Sumay Som, Uttam Hansda, Karan Rai, Ravi Hansda, and Narhari Shrestha.
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Bengal's Santosh Trophy mission
The Santosh Trophy is the national football championship for Indian states and government institutions. Bengal has a rich history in this tournament and has won the title more times than any other team. In the most recent edition, West Bengal claimed the trophy for a record 33rd time, beating Kerala 1-0 in the final with a late goal.
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Coach Sanjoy Sen has combined youth and experience in his squad, with players from local leagues and state competitions. The team will aim to qualify from its group and challenge for the title once again. The Santosh Trophy provides an important platform for regional football talent in India, offering exposure and opportunities for players to make a mark at higher levels of the sport.
