Sunil Chhetri Ruled Out Of India's Friendlies Against Bahrain, Belarus

Sunil Chhetri has been ruled out of the upcoming international friendly matches against Bahrain and Belarus due to injury.

The Indian football team was dealt a huge blow on Monday as its talismanic captain Sunil Chhetri was ruled out of the upcoming international friendly matches against Bahrain and Belarus due to injury. The 37-year-old forward had been named among the 38-member probables by coach Igor Stimac for the matches to be played in Manama on March 23 and 26. "I was really looking forward to the two friendlies against Bahrain and Belarus and it's a shame I'll be missing out," Chhetri told the All India Football Federation (AIFF) website.

"It's been a long, tough season and I've suffered a few small injuries that need time to heal. I will be doing all I can to recover in time for the preparatory camp in May," he added.

As many as eight new faces figure in the list of 38 probables named for the preparatory camp ahead of the friendlies.

"The potential this squad possesses is immense, and a lot of the lads are riding high on confidence on the back of good performances in the League season.

"I'm certain we'll put out best foot forward. I'm wishing the team all the luck," said Chhetri who did not specify the nature of injury.