In a decision that has sent shockwaves through the I-League, the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) Appeals Committee has dealt a heavy blow to Inter Kashi, ruling in favor of complaints filed by Churchill Brothers, Real Kashmir, and Namdhari FC. The committee declared that Inter Kashi violated I-League regulations by fielding a seventh foreign player, resulting in the forfeiture of their matches against the three clubs. This ruling could dramatically reshape the league’s title race.
The storm began when Namdhari FC lodged a formal complaint on March 29, accusing Inter Kashi of breaching Articles 6.5.6 and 6.5.7 of the I-League rulebook. The regulations stipulate that clubs can register a maximum of six foreign players, with re-registration permitted only in cases of season-ending injuries or mutual contract termination.
Namdhari FC alleged that Inter Kashi re-registered Spanish striker Mario Barco (jersey No. 9) in game week 15, despite having previously replaced him with Serbian forward Matija Babovic (jersey No. 30) in game week 9. The club argued that both players remained active in subsequent matches, effectively making Barco the seventh foreign player on the roster—a blatant violation of league rules.
“The re-introduction of jersey No. 9 into the squad is a clear violation of I-League Regulation 6.5.7,” Namdhari FC stated in their letter to the AIFF Disciplinary Committee. They emphasized that no valid reason, such as injury or contract termination, justified Barco’s return to the 30-man squad.
After thorough deliberation, the AIFF Appeals Committee sided with the complainants, ruling that Inter Kashi’s matches against Churchill Brothers, Real Kashmir, and Namdhari FC would be forfeited, with points awarded to their opponents. This decision is set to recalibrate the I-League points table, potentially altering the title race’s outcome.
Inter Kashi Fights Back, Takes Case to CAS
Inter Kashi has vehemently contested the verdict, expressing deep disappointment and announcing their intention to escalate the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
“While it is unfortunate that Inter Kashi has to approach CAS yet again for a truly free and fair hearing, it seems to be the new reality of Indian Football,” the club stated.
The club maintained that it adhered to the league’s rules “in both letter and spirit” and expressed bewilderment at what they called a misinterpretation of straightforward regulations. “The Club is flabbergasted that such simple rules and regulations can be twisted and misinterpreted, leading to unjust consequences,” their statement read.
As the I-League gears up for the new season, this ruling has injected a fresh dose of legal drama into the league’s narrative. No date has been confirmed for the CAS hearing, and the AIFF has remained silent since the verdict was announced.
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