India are set to face Pakistan in their SAFF C'ship opener.
\n\nDefending champions India will face Pakistan in their SAFF Championship 2026 opener as scheduled. Both sides are set to face each other on November 5 in Dhaka. Sports Now can confirm that India will begin their title defence without several first-choice players.
\n\nThe first stage of the tournament overlaps with ISL fixtures. The likes of Mohun Bagan (November 5), FC Goa (November 6, East Bengal (November 7) and Bengaluru FC (November 6) have their matches before the FIFA international window.
\n\nISL clubs are also unwilling to release their key players. According to a source close to the development, the clubs have agreed to release some of the squad before the FIFA international window.
\n\nFor the tournament, India is expected to have its full squad from the second and final group stage fixture. The international window opens on November 9, and India face Maldives on November 11.
\n\nDoubts about India's participation arose as the start of the tournament was outside the FIFA window, and clubs were also reluctant to release players in the middle of the season.
\n\nThe source said, "Only some players will be released for the Pakistan match.
Original source: https://www.timesnownews.com/sports
