Panaji: Khalid Jamil is known to play it safe. On the field, his teams are defensively solid, rarely take risks; off the field, the India coach says so little that there’s no chance of putting his foot in the mouth.Quite uncharacteristically then, Jamil set the cat among the pigeons with his team selection for three high-profile friendlies, including two against former world champions Brazil and Uruguay. The other one is against Panama, a side that is ranked 44 in the world and featured at the World Cup 2026.“I know the talk is that a lot of senior players have not been called up, but I am not shutting the door on them or asking them to retire,” a relaxed Jamil told TOI over a video call on Wednesday. “If the need arises, we will get them back, possibly for injury (cover) or replacements (due to form).“But for these games, I thought this was the best time to make changes, particularly since we are playing at home. The average age of the squad is now 24-25. We have to keep the next Asian Cup qualification cycle in mind. That starts next year and we need players who can serve us in the future. Only if we give them chances, can they prove themselves.”Given the stature of the opposition, Jamil has been bold. He’s left out two of his three captains, Sandesh Jhingan and Rahul Bheke, while Vishal Kaith (injured), Lallianzuala Chhangte, Liston Colaco and Jeakson Singh are all missing. Collectively, these players have over 200 international caps.For Jamil, a former India midfielder who made 40 international appearances between 1998 and 2006, neither the name nor the stage matters.“I have to put India’s interest before that of any individual player or even my own. For example, a game against Brazil cannot be a reward (for players’ services); it’s not exhibition. It’s a proper international friendly and we have to be at our best,” said Jamil.The 26-member squad announced by Jamil isn’t entirely flawless. While many have repeatedly failed to deliver in international matches, at least 10 of them have not had a competitive game this season. Their clubs did not take part in the season-opening Durand Cup, some have not even started training.Jamil doesn’t know in what shape he will find his players when they assemble in Kolkata on Sept 14, a week before the international window opens. He has announced four reserves and has several others in mind.“Besides the 26 and four reserves, I have about 10 players in my mind who I think can fit into this team. On the first day, we will have (fitness) tests and if the player does not deliver, he will be sent home in just a day. We need fit players for these friendlies against top opposition. The senior players should also be ready. I have been talking to the players, telling them that they must maintain their fitness (all through the season),” said Jamil.India are expected to play two friendlies against club sides before the first test against Panama in Bengaluru on Sept 26. Then, there’s the historic clash against five-time world champions Brazil, and another one against two-time World Cup winners Uruguay.“These games are good for Indian football and can prove to be a turning point,” said Jamil, who has completed a year as head coach. “We have to play more such games. The result is not in my hands. Anything can happen, but we should strive to put up a good show.”
