Jamshedpur, July 23: Jamshedpur FC have further strengthened their squad ahead of the 135th Durand Cup with the addition of four experienced Indian players, including the contract extension of defender Sarthak Golui. The latest additions are Leewan Castanha, Raynier Fernandes, and Provat Lakra along with the extension of Sarthak Golui.
Defender Sarthak Golui has extended his contract with the club after initially joining Jamshedpur FC ahead of the 2025 Durand Cup. The 28-year-old, who is comfortable both at centre-back and in the full-back positions, will continue with the Men of Steel for the upcoming ISL season, adding versatility and experience to the defensive unit.
Joining the club is Leewan Castanha, a versatile Goan defender who featured for Mohun Bagan Super Giant in the Indian Super League. A product of the FC Goa, Leewan made his senior professional debut with Indian Arrows in the I-League before going on to establish himself in the ISL. Capable of playing as both a centre-back and right-back, he has also represented India at the U-20 level.
Jamshedpur FC have also signed Raynier Fernandes, an experienced central midfielder from FC Goa. A former India international, Raynier developed through Air India FC before beginning his professional career with Mohun Bagan. He later enjoyed a successful spell with Mumbai City FC, winning both the ISL League Winners' Shield and the ISL Championship during the 2020-21 season. Known for his composure, vision and work rate in midfield, he also lifted the 2023 Super Cup while on loan with Odisha FC.
Completing the quartet is Provat Lakra, the West Bengal-born defender who arrives after representing East Bengal FC in the Indian Super League last season. Having made his breakthrough with Gokulam Kerala FC in the I-League, Provat went on to enjoy successful spells with NorthEast United FC and Jamshedpur FC before joining East Bengal. A dependable full-back who can operate on either flank, he was part of the East Bengal squad that won the 2025-26 ISL Championship.
Jamshedpur FC begin their Group C campaign in the 135th Durand Cup 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 scheduled to be played in Ranchi.
