Indian Under-14 girls football team returns home safe from Nepal

The Indian U-14 Girls’ Team flew back to the nation from an earthquake struck Kathmandu on Sunday evening and landed in IGI Airport, New Delhi. The constant tremors sent panic waves amongst the squad. The Indian eves were slated to play Iran on 25 April but the match was cancelled due to an earthquake which jolted Dasarath Stadium. The Indian contingent was warming up in the Dasarath Stadium when the calamity struck. [caption id=“attachment_2213712” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  The All India Football Federation was constantly in touch with the Indian embassy present in Nepal and with the External Affairs Ministry to ensure that the U-14 girls get priority in extraction. AIFF[/caption] With the wrath of nature continuing throughout the night, the Indian eves were prompted to stay outside of their rooms at Hotel View Bhrikuti in Kathmandu, Nepal. The All India Football Federation was constantly in touch with the Indian embassy present in Nepal and with the External Affairs Ministry to ensure that the U-14 girls get priority in extraction. With the Tribhuvan International Airport shutting down, the Indian contingent sought the help of the Indian Armed Forces, who flew the girls back in a military plane. The Indian Embassy present in Nepal also helped the 23 member contingent, inclusive of 18 Players and 5 Officials. Speaking exclusively to the-aiff.com, Head Coach Rocky Maymol said: “I thank God for looking after us and for keeping us safe. The earthquake was a frightening experience for everybody including me and obviously the players." “We were warming up when the calamity struck and we could see the destruction of the buildings and the stadium gate. It was a horrific scene, but the girls handled it bravely and we all, with God’s help, came out of the scenario.” “Even though the girls are a courageous lot, I was worried about them and wanted to return back to the country as soon as possible. I thank everyone who prayed for us and wished us”, she added. The contingent stays safe and no casualties have been observed.