Exclusive: Naushad Moosa to Lead India at SAFF Championship 2026

India U23 head coach Naushad Moosa is set to take charge of the Indian national team for the SAFF Championship 2026, sources have confirmed to Playmaker India.

India are expected to field a predominantly U23 squad for the regional tournament, supplemented by selected senior national team players who will not feature in the upcoming friendly against New Zealand.

The decision would allow India to maintain a competitive squad at the SAFF Championship while giving younger players valuable international exposure.

Moosa, who has been working with India's U23 setup, will lead the side in what could be an important opportunity for emerging Indian footballers to establish themselves at senior international level.

The squad selection will be particularly interesting, with several younger players potentially getting the chance to compete alongside experienced internationals.

Playmaker India understands that Moosa's appointment and the proposed squad composition have been confirmed by sources familiar with the plans. An official announcement from the All India Football Federation (AIFF) is still awaited.