Suhail Ahmad Bhat, a 20-year-old from Bemina, Srinagar, Kashmir, has been selected for the National Football Team, announced head coach Manolo Marvez. Known for his striking skills with the Indian Super League and Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Suhail is gaining attention as the latest talented footballer from the valley. Although he has played internationally before, this selection marks a new achievement. His team will play their first friendly match against Thailand, followed by a game against Hong Kong on June 10.
Bhat has previously represented India in the Under-17 and Under-23 international games. The Guardian also listed him among the top 60 best players born in 2005. His career began in 2017 when he joined the Sports Council Football Academy in Srinagar. His breakthrough came in the 2023 Durand Cup, where he played for Mohun Bagan SG in a 5-0 victory against the Bangladesh Army.
Suhail’s achievement was warmly acknowledged and welcomed by the football community. “It’s a proud and emotional moment for J&K. Suhail’s selection is a reminder that our region is brimming with talent. With the right support and exposure, many more stars like him can emerge. The resurgence of players like Suhail on the national stage is a beacon of hope for aspiring footballers in Jammu and Kashmir,” said Arun Malhotra, former India footballer and current member of AIFF’s Technical Committee.
Bhat has also played for several other clubs, including Indian Arrows, where he featured during the 2021–22 I-League season.
