She also informed that all these players come from farmers’ families and despite difficult circumstances, they have reached this position with their dedication and hard work towards football. Kerketta said that coming out of rural areas and reaching international level competition is possible only due to their passion and hard work.

All five players study in St. Patrick’s High School, Gumla, she added. “These players are given regular training at Gumla Residential Centre. Here, they are made to focus on the nuances of the game as well as fitness and discipline. This is the reason why the daughters of Gumla are continuously making their mark at the national level,” said Kerketta.

General Secretary of Jharkhand Football Association, Ghulam Rabbani, said that they are working at the grassroots level and are getting better results. “The selection of seven players in the Indian women’s football team is a big achievement for Jharkhand and we feel proud of it. There is a lot of talent in the rural areas of the state, and hence, we are working at the grassroots level and paying special attention to these players,” said Rabbani.

Notably, Jharkhand has a strong tradition of girls’ football and many players from the state have represented the country in international competitions in the past.