AIFF Women’s Commission Chairperson Valanka Alemao has demanded answers after a “series of blunders” marred India’s Women’s Asia Cup campaign in Australia. The problems, from ill-fitting jerseys to questionable administrative decisions, have raised serious concerns about the federation’s functioning.
India’s on-field campaign saw promising moments, including a competitive 1–2 loss to Vietnam, but defeats to Japan and Chinese Taipei meant they left the tournament winless. However, a bigger controversy developed off the field, with players even forced to publicly point out the essential equipment. In a letter to AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey, Alemao called for accountability. In the letter she said:
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“…questions must be asked and answers sought from those responsible for the series of blunders involving the team as it has caused huge embarrassment to the entire country.”
It also urged immediate action and a detailed review of decisions taken before the tournament.
“Who decided to appoint Amelia Valverde of Costa Rica as head coach along with her two assistants in January 2026 by removing Crispin Chhetri just six weeks before the tournament? What was the procedure for her appointment?”
“At the women’s committee meeting in December 2025, I mentioned several areas that needed to be addressed in terms of preparations, travel, stay, kits, etc. But everything was messed up… Who decided to outsource all the arrangements?
Alemao further alleged that key bodies, including the Executive Committee and the Women’s Committee, were not consulted on major decisions, raising questions about transparency.
WHAT WAS THE JERSEY CONTROVERSY?
One of the most notable issues during the tournament was the jersey fiascowhich drew attention to deeper administrative lapses. The Indian team reportedly received ill-fitting kits just days before their opening match in Australia, prompting the players to seek urgent intervention.
The shipment was initially delayed, and when it finally arrived at the team hotel, the players discovered that the jerseys were not the right size. In response, all 26 members of the squad signed a letter to AIFF officials expressing their frustration at the situation and its impact on their preparation and morale.
“…what happened to the kits provided to the Indian team? Who sent ill-fitting jerseys meant for the junior players to Australia. Two days before the first match the players had to provide such bizarre shocks.”
“Word spread like wildfire that local organizers had helped the team get the right jerseys. These questions need to be raised and those responsible for such mistakes that have brought shame to the nation must be held to account.”
Alemao also criticized the team’s preparation, pointing out that India played limited friendlies against weaker opposition and questioned logistical decisions such as training venues and outsourced arrangements.
With India finishing at the bottom of the group after three losses and relegating significantly, the focus has now shifted to administrative responsibility. Alema’s letter increased pressure on the AIFF to address governance issues and ensure that similar lapses do not happen again.
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Issued by:
Debodinna Chakraborty
Published on:
23 March 2026 23:18 IST
