Keep an eye on Anushka Kumari. The young Indian footballer is making waves. The 14-year-old sensation recently bagged a hat-trick against Bhutan on Sunday, continuing India’s strong showing in the SAFF U17 Women’s Championship.
From Rukka, Jharkhand, Anushka’s football journey started early, at just six years old. Her mother, a hard-working labourer, supported the family after her father’s leg injury made him unable to work. At 11, she began training at the Residential Girls Football Centre in Hazaribagh.
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Her talent quickly caught the eye. A standout performance at the Sub Junior National Football Championship for Jharkhand led to a national team call-up. In 2024, she was selected for the SAFF U16 Women’s Championship in Nepal.
At only 13, she shone as joint top-scorer with five goals, scoring in every match. Despite her efforts, India lost to Bangladesh in the final after a penalty shootout.
Anushka has also been playing in IWL2 for Indian Arrows Women’s Juniors, coached by U17 coach Joakim Alexandersson. Last season, she netted six goals as Indian Arrows secured second place, earning them promotion to IWL.
Watch out for Anushka as India aims for the SAFF U17 Women’s Championship title. Their next match is against Bhutan on Wednesday.
Published on Aug 26, 2025