One name sticks out among the prominent additions to the Indian women’s football team squad as anticipation for the next Asian Games 2023 grows: Bala Devi. The experienced striker’s four-year absence from the national team and subsequent return has not only attracted the attention of football fans, but also serves as an example of the unflappable attitude of an athlete willing to overcome obstacles and succeed in competition on a global scale.
Former India captain Bala Devi has a history of making history. When she signed a professional contract with Scottish powerhouses Rangers in 2020, she cemented her place in Indian women’s football history as the country’s first female footballer to do so. Her entry onto the European football scene was evidence of both her commitment and the rising stature of Indian players internationally.
But destiny had other ideas. An ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) injury quickly put an end to Bala Devi’s voyage, shattering many people’s hopes. But the spirit of Bala Devi survived unharmed. She underwent surgery and started a demanding rehabilitation process that demonstrated her tenacity and tenacity. When she returned to the field early this year during a national camp in Chennai, her relentless dedication paid off.
The track record of the 33-year-old striker speaks for itself. She brings a plethora of expertise and prowess to the team with 36 goals in 46 games for the national team. Her inclusion in the forward line will unquestionably improve India’s offensive skills as they play in the Asian Games against strong opposition. With 17 teams competing for gold, the football competition in the Asian Games in 2023 will be competitive. Chinese Taipei (ranked 38th) and Thailand (ranked 46th) are two strong opponents for the Indian women’s football team, which is currently ranked 61st in the FIFA Rankings. The team’s combination of seasoned campaigners like Bala Devi and up-and-coming players sets the foundation for a compelling and intense campaign, despite the difficult nature of the trip to the quarterfinals.
Indian Team
Goalkeepers: Shreya Hooda, Sowmiya Narayanasamy, Panthoi Chanu
Defenders: Ashalata Devi, Sweety Devi, Ritu Rani, Dalima Chhibber, Astam Oraon, Sanju, Ranjana Chanu
Midfielders: Sangita Basfore, Priyangka Devi, Indumathi Kathiresan, Anju Tamang, Soumya Guguloth, Dangmei Grace
Forwards: Pyari Xaxa, Jyoti, Renu, Bala Devi, Manisha, Sandhiya Ranganathan.
Head Coach: Thomas Dennerby