Kerala Blasters FC are delighted to announce that goalkeeper Arsh Anwer Shaikh and midfielder Ebindas Yesudasan have been named in India’s 28-member squad by head coach Naushad Moosa for the upcoming SAFF Championship 2026
The selection marks a significant milestone in the journeys of both players and recognises their continued development in Indian football. As the Blue Tigers prepare to defend their title in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Arsh and Ebin will have an opportunity to represent the country at the senior level for the first time in their career.
Arsh Anwer Shaikh
Joining the Blasters in June 2025 from Mohun Bagan SG on a three-year deal, Arsh made an immediate impression on his debut against Mumbai City FC in February 2026, denying former Blasters striker Jorge Pereyra Diaz from the penalty spot in the 24th minute. Despite the eventual result, the goalkeeper produced a memorable performance, making several important saves throughout the match.
Arsh went on to make 12 appearances in the 2025-26 ISL season, recording 26 saves and one clean sheet. In the MG Indian Super League 2026-27, Arsh has made two appearances so far, in which he recorded a total of eight saves and one clean sheet. The keeper has also made an appearance for the India U23 side in their match against Malaysia U23 in March 2024, where he secured a clean sheet for the Blue Colts.
Having earned his place in the national squad, the 23-year-old now has another opportunity to showcase his abilities at the international level.
Ebindas Yesudasan
Having progressed through the club’s developmental setup, Ebindas Yesudasan has steadily established himself as an exciting prospect in the senior squad. Ebin’s journey at Kerala Blasters FC is a testament to the club’s commitment to shaping young talents to create a meaningful impact at the senior levels.
Ebin’s breakthrough came during the 2025-26 Indian Super League campaign, where he emerged as one of the club’s standout performers. Making 12 appearances and accumulating 496 minutes, he registered five assists, becoming one of the league’s leading creative contributors.
The midfielder played an important role in Kannur’s maiden title-winning campaign, making 10 appearances and accumulating 700 minutes. He registered one goal, created eight chances, completed 12 successful dribbles and delivered 16 crosses. His defensive contribution was equally noteworthy, with 35 tackles and 12 interceptions.
Recognising his development and importance to the club’s long-term plans, Kerala Blasters FC recently extended Ebindas’s contract by two years, keeping him at the club until 2028. The extension, announced in October 2026, underlines the club’s confidence in his potential and the role he is expected to play in the coming seasons.
At the international level, Ebindas has previously represented India at the U-20 level and earned a call-up to the U-23 squad in March 2026. His inclusion in the senior national squad for the SAFF Championship marks his maiden senior India call-up, representing another significant milestone in his career.
Blue Tigers Await Pakistan and Maldives Test
India will begin their SAFF Championship 2026 campaign against Pakistan on November 5, before facing the Maldives on November 11. The tournament, scheduled to conclude on November 17, will see the Blue Tigers eye to defend their title for the third consecutive edition.
Kerala Blasters FC congratulate both Arsh and Ebindas on their selection and wish them the very best as they prepare to represent India. The club looks forward to seeing them carry their spirit onto the international stage.
