Sushmita Lepcha's Inspiring Journey to the Indian Women's National Football Team
A Surprising Call-Up to the National Team
Sushmita Lepcha experienced a moment of disbelief when she was unexpectedly added to the Indian women's national team WhatsApp group. Without any prior notification of her selection, she felt confused until her coach at East Bengal, Anthony Andrews, confirmed the news. 'Yes, you've been called up,' he reassured her.
At 29, Sushmita never envisioned donning India's blue jersey. This call-up marked her debut at a national team camp, which is particularly significant as it precedes the AFC Women's Asian Cup in Australia, a tournament India has qualified for after a 23-year hiatus.
An Unconventional Start in Kalimpong
Sushmita's football journey began in Kalimpong, West Bengal, where opportunities for girls in the sport were scarce. Football was predominantly a boys' game, and her initial exposure came through her older brother. 'There wasn't really anything for girls in football. I learned by watching my brother play, which inspired me to join in,' she shared with the AIFF in Perth.
Her passion for football grew as she made friends through the sport, leading her to venture beyond her hometown. A local coach, affectionately known as 'Mini Uncle,' took her to Darjeeling for a local tournament, which opened up new opportunities and expanded her network.
Climbing the Club Ladder
Sushmita began her competitive journey in the Calcutta Women's Football League with Sevayani Social Welfare Organisation. Her talent soon caught the attention of PIFA Sports FC in Mumbai, and later, in 2020, she joined Kickstart FC. 'Kickstart requested video clips of my gameplay, and after reviewing them, they invited me to join,' she explained.
Her time at Kickstart was pivotal, leading to her selection for the Bengal state team in the Senior Women's National Football Championship. In 2023, Bengal reached the finals in Amritsar, and in 2024, they made it to the semi-finals in Kolkata. Her impressive performances drew the interest of East Bengal FC.
The East Bengal Transformation
'When East Bengal approached me, I knew I couldn't let this opportunity slip away. It was my state club, and it meant a lot to me. My family encouraged me to seize this chance,' Sushmita recalled. Joining East Bengal was a transformative experience, placing her alongside experienced Indian internationals under the mentorship of Anthony Andrews.
'I never imagined I would play alongside national team players like Asha di, Sweety, and Anju. It was a dream come true, and I knew I would learn a lot from them.' At East Bengal, she gained insights into the professionalism required at the highest levels of Indian football. 'I continue to improve and learn every day,' she added.
The Moshal Girls, representing East Bengal, clinched the title in the 2024-25 Indian Women's League, securing spots in both the AFC Women's Champions League and the SAFF Women's Club Championship. Thus, despite being new to the national team, Sushmita is no stranger to high-level competition.
From Club Success to National Representation
'My first experience in the AWCL was incredible. With each match, I realized the intensity of international football. It’s a tough level, and the learning curve was invaluable. I never thought I would get the chance to represent India; my initial goal was simply to enjoy playing,' Sushmita reflected.
However, her steady progress and the right support changed her path. 'The club, the coach, and everyone at East Bengal motivated me. Their encouragement was crucial to my current success.' Her first national team call-up placed her in a high-pressure environment under foreign coach Amelia Valverde. The preparation camps in Turkiye and Australia were unlike anything she had experienced before. 'I felt nervous yet excited,' she admitted.
Having shared a dressing room with several teammates at East Bengal eased her transition. In India's 26-member squad for the Asian Cup, eight players hail from the Red and Gold Brigade, including Sushmita. 'Initially, my goal was to perform well for the club. Thanks to East Bengal and Coach Anthony, I now have this national team opportunity, which is a significant achievement for me. I aim to give my best and contribute to the team in this crucial tournament,' she concluded.
Looking Ahead
Sushmita Lepcha's journey from local tournaments with her brother to international club competitions is remarkable. From sharing video clips for selection to discovering her national team call-up through a WhatsApp notification, her path has been anything but conventional. As she prepares to wear the India jersey for the first time in a major tournament, she reflects on her unexpected journey and quietly believes that this is where she truly belongs.
India's first match in the AFC Women's Asian Cup Australia 2026 is against Vietnam on March 4 at 16:30 IST.