Indian Super League franchise NorthEast United FC have announced the signing of Mizo defender Rochharzela and Lalkhawpuimawia ahead of the 2020/21 season.

22 year old Mizoram-born Rochharzela has come through the Aizawl FC youth system and he has been a regular for the People’s Club over the last three seasons in the I-League and the Mizoram Premier League.

28 year old Mizoram-born Lalkhawpuimawia played football locally before aking it to the Mizoram Premier League, where he played for Chhinga Veng FC. He then played in the last couple of seasons for Aizawl FC and Churchill Brothers, which has now earned him a move to the ISL.

NorthEast United FC executive director Priya Runchal said, “Our core philosophy at the Club is to provide a platform for players from the region to showcase their abilities. Over the last 6 years we have stayed true to this and are thrilled to have Rochharzela and Lalkhawpuimawia be a part of our team. Rochharzela was one of the top talents on display in last season’s I-League whilst Lalkhawpuimawi’s prolific goal scoring record speaks for itself. We are confident that both of them will be valuable additions to our squad.”

Rochharzela said, “It is an honour for me to represent Northeast United in the ISL. I have been watching the team and the league since the beginning and I feel it is the right time for me to make my mark in this competition.”

Meanwhile Lalkhawpuimawia stated, “I would like to thank the management for giving me this opportunity to prove myself in the Indian Super League. I am looking forward to working with the coaching staff and my teammates to make this season one to remember.”