Jamshedpur FC

Jamshedpur, July 15: As Jamshedpur FC continue their preparations for the 135th Durand Cup, midfielder Pronay Halder is looking forward to another season with the Men of Steel while embracing the responsibility of guiding the club's next generation of talent.

One of the longest-serving members of the squad, Pronay has been an integral part of Jamshedpur FC since joining ahead of the 2021-22 season. With his experience and leadership, the midfielder will play a key role as the team, under Head Coach Kaizad Ambapardiwala, features a blend of senior Indian players and promising youngsters from the club's youth development system during the Durand Cup.

The experienced midfielder believes the tournament provides the ideal platform to prepare for the upcoming Indian Super League season while helping young players make the transition to senior football.

"Preparations have been going really well. The intensity in training has been excellent and everyone is working hard to be ready for the Durand Cup. It's an important tournament for us because it helps us build rhythm and confidence before the ISL," said Pronay.

The 33-year-old also highlighted the importance of supporting the younger players in the squad.

"We have some very talented youngsters coming through our academy and reserve teams. This is a great opportunity for them to experience senior football. As senior players, it's our responsibility to guide them, share our experience and help them settle in. If they continue to work hard and learn every day, they have a bright future ahead."

Jamshedpur FC will begin their Group C campaign against Defenders FC of Sri Lanka on July 26 at the Birsa Munda Football Stadium in Ranchi. The Men of Steel will then face Sporting Club Delhi on August 4 before taking on Indian Air Force Football Team on August 13, with all three group-stage fixtures to be played in Ranchi.