14-year-old Abhista Basnett from Pakyong District has been shortlisted for the final 23-member squad of the India U-17 Women’s National Football Team. She will represent the country at the upcoming SAFF U-17 Women’s Championship, set to take place in Bhutan.
Abhista earned her spot on the national team following her impressive performance during the trials organized by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) in June 2025.
The young footballer’s journey from the hills of Pakyong to the national stage marks a significant milestone not only in her budding football career but also for women’s football in Sikkim.
