Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff could make his Durand Cup debut after being included in Mumbay FC's squad for the 135th edition of Asia's oldest football tournament. Shroff, who co-founded the Mumbai-based club in 2024 and serves as its brand ambassador and marquee player, has reportedly been training regularly with the team. If plans proceed as expected, he is likely to feature in the club's final Group E fixture against Nongkseh SS&CC in Shillong.

Mumbay FC's maiden appearance in the prestigious tournament has already drawn significant attention, with Shroff's inclusion adding further interest. The actor had previously represented the club in the Mumbai Premier League, but a potential appearance in the Durand Cup would mark his debut in one of India's most historic football competitions. His selection has also sparked mixed reactions, with some fans welcoming the move as a boost for grassroots football while others have questioned the inclusion of a celebrity in a competitive tournament.

According to RevSportz, sources close to the club confirmed that Shroff has been part of Mumbay FC's preparations ahead of the competition. The team is scheduled to travel to Shillong on July 30 for its group-stage campaign. "Tiger has registered with the team and is most likely to make an appearance in the final group-stage match. He has been training regularly with the squad," a source told the publication.

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Shroff launched Mumbay FC in July 2024 alongside entrepreneur Ali Ahmed with the aim of strengthening Mumbai's football ecosystem. Since its formation, the club has enjoyed a rapid rise, winning the Maharashtra State Club Championship before securing a third-place finish in I-League 3, a result that earned qualification for this year's Durand Cup. Reflecting on his competitive debut for the club last year, Shroff said football had always been a major passion and revealed that representing India on the football field had once been a lifelong dream.

First held in 1888, the Durand Cup is Asia's oldest football tournament and the world's third-oldest existing football competition. The 135th edition is being held from July 25 to August 23 and features 24 teams divided into six groups, with the six group winners and the two best second-placed teams progressing to the quarter-finals. Mumbay FC have been drawn in Group E alongside Langsning FC, Shillong Lajong FC and Nongkseh SS&CC, with all of their group-stage matches scheduled at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong. Shroff is expected to make his tournament debut in the final group-stage clash if selected.

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