Suhail Ahmad Bhat, a promising young footballer, reflects on his incredible journey from being a ball boy to training alongside Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri. The 20-year-old recalls the 2019 practice match between an Indian XI and the Jammu & Kashmir All Stars, where he stood behind the goalpost of Amrinder Singh, the very same goalkeeper he now practices alongside.
As a first-time camper on the national team, Bhat impresses his more experienced teammates with his ambidextrous shooting skills. His excitement is palpable, especially considering his journey began just as Chhetri debuted for India in 2005 when Bhat was only two months old. Recently, Bhat expressed his aspirations to play his first match for India, with an international friendly against Thailand scheduled for June 4, followed by an AFC Asian Cup Qualifier against Hong Kong on June 10.
Training alongside Chhetri is a surreal experience for Bhat, who looks up to him not just for his exceptional skills demonstrated over two decades but also for his relentless work ethic. Bhat shares, “If he’s 10 minutes early for gym, I try to be 15 minutes earlier.” This dedication reflects Bhat’s commitment to continuous improvement.
Should he be selected for the upcoming matches, Bhat would make history as only the fifth player from Jammu & Kashmir to don the national jersey, following notable players like Abdul Majeed Kakroo and Mushir Ahmed. His selection would not only fulfill his personal dream but also represent the aspirations of an entire region.
Having already made a name for himself at the U16, U19, and U23 levels, Bhat was recognized in the Guardian’s Next Generation list of 60 best young talents in world football in 2022. Drawing from the guidance of his coaches, he emphasizes the importance of discipline and resilience, attributes he believes are vital for his growth in the sport.
Bhat’s story is one of passion and ambition, symbolizing the potential of young athletes from diverse backgrounds. His journey inspires hope, not only for aspiring players in Kashmir but for all who dare to dream big in the world of sports.