Siliguri, March 3, 2026 — Kalimpong’s own Sushmita Lepcha has officially secured her place in the final squad of the Indian Women’s National Football Team for the ongoing AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026. Her inclusion marks a monumental achievement for North Bengal’s sporting community, transforming a local talent into a prominent figure on the continental stage.
The Unexpected Notification
Lepcha’s path to the Asian Cup was finalized by a sudden and life-changing turn of events. While she had previously been called up for the national camp—a development Tarai 24 covered extensively during her initial selection—her final ticket to the tournament came down to a last-minute official notification from the All India Football Federation (AIFF).
According to AIFF reports, Lepcha received the unexpected message just as she was going about her regular routine. The notification required her to immediately pack her bags and report to the senior national team’s traveling squad. What initially started as a standby camp opportunity rapidly evolved into a full-fledged international debut call-up, rewarding her relentless hard work and impressive performance during the rigorous national training sessions.
Rising Through the Ranks
Lepcha’s journey from the hills of Kalimpong to the apex of Asian football is a story of grit. Battling the structural challenges and limited premium infrastructure in the region, she rose through the ranks via sheer determination.
Her standout performances in the domestic circuit, particularly in the Indian Women’s League (IWL), caught the attention of the national selectors. During the national camp, the coaching staff was reportedly highly impressed by her technical agility, game awareness, and ability to adapt to high-pressure situations, leaving them with no choice but to include her in the final roster for the Asian Cup.
India’s Upcoming Asian Cup Campaign
With the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 currently underway, all eyes are now on Lepcha and the Blue Tigresses as they navigate a highly competitive group stage. The Indian Women’s Team is scheduled to face formidable opponents in their upcoming fixtures as they fight for a spot in the knockout rounds.
