Former Ba FC captain Praneel Naidu has returned to the Men in Black, joining the team as they prepare for next week’s Inter District Championship (IDC). The experienced 30-year-old defender last played for Ba during the 2025 IDC, where his leadership helped secure a significant tournament victory for his hometown.
Ba’s head coach, Rodeck Singh, expressed enthusiasm over Naidu’s return, along with star midfielder Mohammad Raheem, describing their comeback as monumental for the team’s championship aspirations. Singh emphasized, “Both of them provide an extra boost for Ba, as they are seasoned campaigners, and bringing them back is a big advantage.”
With the reinstatement of two of their most skilled and dependable players, Ba FC strengthens its position as a serious contender for the title in the upcoming tournament. Ba finds itself placed in Group B, competing against formidable teams such as reigning Extra Premier League champions Rewa, last year’s IDC finalists Navua, and the underdog team Nadroga.
The reunion of Naidu and Raheem not only boosts morale but also signifies Ba’s strategic intent to leverage experience in pursuit of championship glory. With a rich football history and a reputation for developing strong local talents, Ba FC’s current trajectory underlines their aim to reclaim their dominance in local football.
Ba’s confidence is further supported by a strong foundation both in leadership and strategy. This return of veteran players complements the team’s ongoing efforts to refine their tactics and enhance player synergy, as seen in various pre-tournament preparations across earlier matches and tournaments. Ba’s football community maintains optimism, with fans eagerly anticipating their team’s performance, driven by renewed hopes and the promising potential to capture the IDC title once again.