Kashmir midfielder Danish Farooq Bhat was on Monday named in the 23-member squad to represent India national football team at the CAFA Nations Cup, which starts August 29 in Tajikistan. This is new head coach Khalid Jamil’s first tournament in charge of the senior men’s team.
This remarkable milestone is a matter of great pride not only for Danish and his family but also for the entire football fraternity of J&K,” the FA said.
Real Kashmir also lauded their former star.
“Your success is Kashmir’s pride, and your journey continues to inspire the next generation of footballers,” the team wrote.
J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also sent his congratulations to Danish. In a tweet, the CM wrote:
“Congratulations to Danish Farooq. Danish previously played for the J&K Bank football team & has been selected for the Indian National Football Team. Best of luck to you Danish. May you continue to shine.”
India will take on Tajikistan on August 29, Iran on September 1 and Afghanistan on September 4.
The Blue Tigers have been drawn in Group B alongside defending champions Iran, hosts Tajikistan and Afghanistan.
Danish, who plays for Indian Super League team Kerala Blasters, has already earned two caps for the national team, having made his debut in 2022. The 6-foot-1 central midfielder from Srinagar started his youth career with J&K Bank FC before playing for local clubs LoneStar Kashmir FC, Real Kashmir FC. He then played for Bengaluru FC and has been with Kerala since 2023, making 38 appearances and scoring four goals.
Nicknamed “Kashmiri Ronaldo” by peers in Kashmir, Danish is the son of legendary Kashmiri footballer Farooq Ahmad Bhat.
J&K Football Association was among many to congratulate Danish Farooq Bhat on his selection.
