The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has announced the launch of a global scouting programme for India’s 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup team to be conducted with the support of the Sports Authority of India (SAI).

The programme, named the SAI–AIFF Overseas Scouting Project (OSP), will hold its very first on-field trials in Dubai on June 10 and 11 for 2000 & 2001 born boys holding valid Indian passports. The trials have been specifically planned for players residing in the UAE and nearby states/countries.

AIFF Director of Scouting and former India international Abhishek Yadav will conduct these trials with his scouting team and capable players will be invited to attend another round of trials to be watched by India U-17 World Cup Team Head Coach Nicolai Adam. Any player meeting Adam’s requirements will be selected for the India U-17 camp or the first team itself.

The next FIFA U-17 World Cup is scheduled to be held in India during September-October 2017.

Details of the Dubai trials are as follows:
• Dates: 10 June & 11 June, 2016
• Timings: Players should arrive at least 15 minutes in advance.
• Morning sessions: 07.00 to 10.00 local time – for Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujaira, Ras Al Khaima& Umm Al Quwain residents
• Evening sessions: 20.00 to 22.00 local time – for the benefit of Abu Dhabi, Al Ain & other residents in view of Ramadan
• Venue: The Indian High School, OudMetha Road, Dubai, UAE (natural grass pitch)
• Local Coordinator: Mohammed Shanavas (Phone +97 1502030745)

The strict eligibility criteria for players are as follows:
• Boys born in 2000 or 2001.
• Must hold a valid Indian passport & carry a copy of the main passport pages to the trials.
• Must be physically fit to play at the trials.
• The trials are open & free for all those who meet the criteria.

Other information:
• Registration will be carried out on arrival at the venue.
• Players will have to play in an appropriate kit of their own: jersey’s, shorts, football shoes & socks, shin guards.
• Drinking water will be provided at the trials; medical assistance will be present.
• Players should be ready to attend trials on both days.

For further information, contact:
Vikram Nanivadekar (nanivadekar.vikram@gmail.com / Phone: +91 98690 37840)
Mohammed Shanavas, Local Project Coordinator (shanavas.sept@gmail.com / Phone: +97 1502030745)

(Report & Photo courtesy AIFF Media)