Back from his ACL injury, Sandesh Jhingan also returns to the Indian squad announced by the chief national coach Manolo Marquez for India’s forthcoming friendly match against Malaysia on 18th November in Hyderabad. 

Among the 26 probables named by the chief national coach, there are potential debutants like Mumbai City FC defender Hmingthanmawia Ralte, NorthEast United FC midfielder Jithin MS, Kerala Blasters FC midfielder Vibin Mohanan, and Chennaiyin FC forward Irfan Yadwad. 

"We have called 26 players and with every window, we are getting closer to the group that we want to have. We have two priorities, the first is to be in Pot 1 for the Asian Cup Qualifiers, which we are practically very close to. The second is to arrive in the best condition for the qualifiers in March because that's going to be our first official match," said Márquez.

India are currently ranked 125th (1133 points) after climbing a place following the draw with Vietnam. Malaysia, however, are ranked 133rd (1113 points). 

The senior national team have not yet been able to grasp victory after Manolo took over charge. Still, the Spanish coach emphasized that the team have improved with every training session so far. Manolo also believes the friendly will be a good test for both teams, aiming to qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.

"We will play in Hyderabad again against Malaysia, a team that, like us, is also in the fight to qualify for the Asian Cup. So, it will be a good test for both teams," said the Spaniard.