Indian football's bizarre scandal: Coach Igor Stimac consulted astrologer for team selection in 2022

Indian football coach Igor Stimac reportedly sought the guidance of an astrologer for team selection ahead of four critical matches, including Asian Cup qualifiers, in May and June last year.

The Indian Express report quotes Stimac, who mentioned that the astrologer was recommended to him, and he agreed to consult the astrologer after being convinced by others to assess the potential impact on sports.

Kushal Das, then the secretary-general of the All India Football Federation (AIFF), confirmed that he introduced Stimac to the astrologer, Bhupesh Sharma. Das emphasised the importance of India's qualification for the Asian Cup during a challenging period.

Reportedly, the AIFF paid astrologer Sharma Rs 12-15 lakh for two months of services, a sum justified by India's successful qualification for the Asian Cup, according to Das.

India played four matches during this period, including a friendly against Jordan and three Asian Cup qualifiers against Cambodia, Afghanistan, and Hong Kong. Despite losing the friendly match against Jordan 2-0 in May, India secured victory in all three Asian Cup qualifiers the following month, securing their place in the 2023 Asian Cup.

Throughout this period, Stimac and astrologer Sharma exchanged nearly 100 messages, indicating their communication before each match. The report suggests that Stimac consulted Sharma on potential team selections and injury updates and incorporated his insights into the final playing squad.

According to the report, two established players did not make the starting XI against Afghanistan on June 11 due to unfavorable astrological conditions.

Kushal Das resigned from his position last year following changes in leadership after the AIFF elections. Kalyan Chaubey assumed the role of the new president in September 2022, with Shaji Prabhakaran named as the new secretary-general.

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