The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has appointed Santosh Kashyap as the new head coach of the national senior women’s team, replacing former international player Chaoba Devi. Kashyap’s first assignment will be the SAFF Women’s Championships to be held in Kathmandu, Nepal, from October 17 to 30.
Kashyap, a former India international, brings almost a decade of coaching experience in the I-League, having managed clubs like Mohun Bagan, Aizawl FC, and Mumbai FC. The 58-year-old has also served as assistant coach of NorthEast United FC and Odisha FC in the Indian Super League.
Kashyap will be assisted by Priya PV and Raghuvir Pravin Khanolkar as goalkeeper coach. “Coaching the National Team is always an honor,” said Kashyap. “I am grateful to the AIFF President, Shri Kalyan Chaubey, the technical committee, the technical department, and other senior members of the federation for providing me the opportunity to coach the senior national women’s team.”
Kashyap expressed confidence in the current squad, stating, “I have full faith in the current set of players in the team. They are all bright players. But what we require to improve is technically. I am confident that I can give the needed input to the team members during the national camp.”
Regarding the SAFF Women’s Championships, Kashyap said, “I am aware that our result in the previous SAFF Championship didn’t meet the expectations. But this time, with the right tactics, approach, and decision-making ability, we can regain the title.”
“Football has become an extremely competitive sport, especially at the international level. So, we shouldn’t take any team lightly. SAFF is only the first step. Thereafter, I have a bigger plan in mind. I am sure, this team is capable of delivering the goods.”
