Jamshedpur FC

Jamshedpur, July 10: Jamshedpur FC is pleased to announce that Kaizad Ambapardiwalla will lead the Men of Steel during the club's 2026 Durand Cup campaign.

Kaizad, who has been an integral part of Jamshedpur FC's youth development setup, will take charge of the first team for the prestigious tournament as the club continues to provide opportunities for its emerging talent and coaching staff.
Under his guidance, the JFC youth teams have consistently impressed with its performances while nurturing young players capable of making the step up to senior football.

Jamshedpur FC's squad for the Durand Cup will comprise a blend of experienced senior Indian players and the club's most promising talent from its youth development system. The tournament will provide an important platform for emerging players to test themselves alongside seasoned professionals, reinforcing the club's philosophy of creating a clear pathway from the youth teams to the senior setup.

Jamshedpur FC have been drawn in Group C of the 135th Durand Cup alongside Defenders FC of Sri Lanka, Sporting Club Delhi and Indian Air Force Football Team. The Men of Steel will play all three of their group-stage matches at the Birsa Munda Football Stadium in Ranchi.

The campaign begins on July 26 against Defenders FC, followed by fixtures against Sporting Club Delhi on August 4 and Indian Air Force Football Team on August 13.

Speaking on the appointment, Jamshedpur FC CEO Mukul Choudhari said "The Durand Cup is an excellent platform for our players, and we have complete confidence in Kaizad to lead the team. With a blend of experienced senior Indian players and talented youngsters from our development pathway, this squad reflects our commitment to building the future of Jamshedpur FC while remaining competitive."

"It is an honour to lead Jamshedpur FC in a tournament as prestigious as the Durand Cup. We have a talented group of players who have worked hard in pre-season, and we are looking forward to the challenge ahead. Our aim is to represent the club with pride, play positive football and make the most of this opportunity," said Kaizad about his appointment.