Durand Cup Committee explains absence of ISL clubs and eyes separate women’s cup plan

The Durand Cup Committee spoke to reporters at a press conference ahead of the tournament’s opening game on 25th July. The panel addressed the absence of ISL clubs from this edition and indicated they are eyeing a separate women’s cup plan.

Ahead of the 25th July opener, organisers gathered media attention to outline their position on participation and future competitions. The Durand Cup Committee used the briefing to comment on why Indian Super League sides are not involved in this edition and to signal interest in establishing a distinct women’s tournament. No player names, match results or venue details were announced in the material provided at the press event.

During the session, committee representatives reiterated that ISL clubs would not feature in the current Durand Cup, explaining that the topic required public clarification. Journalists present were told the organisers are exploring the concept of a separate women’s cup, framing it as a potential addition to the competition calendar. The statement left the timing and format of any women’s event unspecified.

The committee’s comments focused on organisational matters rather than match-by-match coverage. Officials addressed media queries about ISL participation status and the broader structure of the Durand Cup competition. Their remarks emphasised administrative decisions surrounding this edition.

Discussion of a women’s competition formed part of the committee’s wider commentary at the press conference. The Durand Cup Committee described the idea of a distinct women’s cup as something under consideration, indicating an interest in expanding the tournament’s scope. Attendees at the briefing were not provided with further operational or scheduling details.

The press conference took place in the run-up to the tournament opening on 25th July and was limited to clarifying participation and future planning. The Durand Cup Committee’s explanations addressed the absence of ISL clubs and expressed that organisers are eyeing a separate women’s cup plan.