Anas Edathodika retires from international football

Anas Edathodika bowed out following India's group-stage exit from the Asian Cup.

India and Kerala Blasters centre-back Anas Edathodika announced his retirement from international football on Tuesday following India's exit from the AFC Asian Cup.

"It’s been a very hard decision to take and accept. I think it’s the time to step down and give opportunities to youngsters who can perform better," he said in a social media post.

The 31-year-old defender played a part in all the qualifiers as India returned to the continental showpiece for the first time since 2011 but ends his career on a low — a hamstring injury in the opening minutes of the crucial clash against Bahrain forcing him off the field.

 

Anas, who was handed his debut by Stephen Constantine in a 3-2 win against Cambodia in March 2017, won 18 caps in total. Though he entered the national setup late, he formed a strong center-back partnership with club-teammate Sandesh Jhingan for the Blue Tigers.