Indian Football Officials Eye Diaspora Rule Change as Bhatia Consortium Nears Liverpool Stake
Arunava Chaudhuri signals potential policy shift for Overseas Citizens of India, while a consortium led by Amit Bhatia, Jeff Bezos, and Eduardo Saverin approaches a £4.4 billion valuation for Liverpool FC.
Indian football authorities are advancing discussions to permit British Indian diaspora players to represent the national team without relinquishing their UK passports, a move that could significantly bolster squad depth. Arunava Chaudhuri, former Mumbai City FC chief operating officer, told Sky Sports News he is "convinced" the path will be cleared for Overseas Citizens of India to play for the Blue Tigers. Current regulations require foreign-born players to surrender their overseas citizenship to qualify, a barrier that has historically prevented British Indians from earning international recognition.
Chaudhuri suggested the potential inclusion of diaspora footballers could extend beyond the pitch, impacting bids for the next Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad and the 2036 Olympic Games. This development follows a decade-long effort by British Indian footballers to secure eligibility, with previous attempts involving figures such as Michael Chopra and Danny Batth failing to result in caps due to regulatory constraints. Sky Sports News has been tracking these developments since 2014, noting that senior officials are now closer than ever to resolving the eligibility impasse.
In parallel commercial developments, a consortium led by British Indian entrepreneur Amit Bhatia is closing in on a deal to acquire a one-third stake in Liverpool FC. The investor group includes Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin. The transaction would value the club at £4.4 billion, marking one of the sport's richest-ever deals. Sky Sports News has contacted Liverpool and the Fenway Sports Group for comment on the reported acquisition.
On the administrative front, West Ham United interim chief executive Karim Virani has reaffirmed the club’s immediate ambition to return to the Premier League. Speaking at a West Ham United and Inclusive Irons event with Desi Ballers to close South Asian Heritage Month, Virani emphasised that while driving positive off-pitch action is crucial, the primary objective is to escape the Championship. The event also showcased the 2025/26 British South Asians in Football Team of the Season, highlighting the club's commitment to inclusion.
In transfer news, Fulham’s Farhaan Ali Wahid has joined National League side Borehamwood on loan, marking his first taste of senior football after 17 goal contributions in 21 Premier League 2 appearances last season. Meanwhile, Riya Mannu has completed a move to West Bromwich Albion Women, and Pakistan international Zahmena Malik has joined Actonians. Additionally, Dr Zaf Iqbal and Mariam Mahmood have been shortlisted for Sports Personality of the Year at the Asian Achievers Awards, recognising their respective contributions to English football and Pakistan’s national team.
