Ahmedabad : Khushbu Saroj, the daughter of a gardener from Ahmedabad, has defied societal norms and personal challenges to earn a coveted spot in India’s 23-member squad for the AFC U-20 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers. Her journey is a powerful story of determination, family support, and breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
Growing up, Khushbu faced more than just competition on the field. Her father was mocked by his friends and neighbors for letting her play football in shorts — a symbol of conservative societal attitudes towards girls playing sports in public. Despite this ridicule, her father stood firm in supporting her passion, marking a critical turning point in Khushbu’s footballing career.
Khushbu’s rise in football is notable not only for her talent but also for the mentorship she received. Under the guidance of coach Lalita Saini, she overcame injuries and honed her skills to compete at the highest level. Her hard work culminated in her selection to represent India on the international stage, showcasing the growing presence of women in Indian football.
The India women’s national under-20 team has had a history of competing in AFC tournaments, though qualification for global events like the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup has remained elusive. Khushbu’s inclusion in the squad signals hope and progress as the team prepares to face strong competitors in the upcoming qualifiers in Myanmar.
Khushbu’s story is emblematic of the changing landscape of Indian sports, where more young women from humble backgrounds are stepping into the spotlight. Her journey from the narrow lanes of Ahmedabad to the international pitch inspires not only aspiring female athletes but also challenges societal stereotypes.
As the AFC U-20 Women’s Asian Cup Qualifiers approach, all eyes will be on talents like Khushbu Saroj — a testament to resilience, family support, and the unyielding spirit to pursue one’s dreams against all odds.
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