NEW DELHI: Just days before the opening of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup against Vietnam in Perth, the Indian women footballers faced an unexpected problem – ill-fitting gear and lack of proper training equipment. In a rare and strongly worded letter to AIFF Deputy General Secretary M. Satyanarayanan, all 26 players expressed frustration and said the matter had damaged their morale at a crucial time.“Representing India on the international stage requires professional standards, including properly fitting and appropriate match and training wear,” the letter said.The players revealed that they had already faced problems during training due to inappropriate clothing. “The arrival of the wrong match kits at this crucial stage further affected morale and disrupted our focus in the final days before the match.”Shockingly, the kits were reportedly too small, with sizes seemingly designed for under-15s and not fitting at least 80% of the squad. Even the coaching staff were given ill-sized kits.“This tournament marks our return to a major continental competition after 23 years and is a significant moment for Indian women’s football. Unfortunately, in Matchday Minus 2… we have discovered a serious problem. The kits supplied are not fit for purpose.”The letter, signed by eight senior players including captain Sweety Devi and Grace Dangmei, but supported by the entire team, demanded urgent action. “We urgently request: 1. The immediate provision of properly sized match and training kits… 2. Confirmation that suitable replacements will be supplied prior to kick-off. 3. Clarification of the steps being taken to prevent such incidents in the future,” he added.Despite the setback, the players added: “We remain fully committed to representing our country with pride and performing at our best.”The AIFF later said the new kits had been provided and approved by AFC officials.
