Essel Group's football team gets MDFA nod to play Elite Division

Mumbai, Jun 22 (UNI) The Essel Group's attempt at starting a separate Indian Cricket League might have not yet seen the light of day, but their football club's proposed foray into the highest echelons of Indian soccer tasted success and encouragement when the Mumbai District Football Association gave its nod for the club's participation in the Elite Division of the MDFA's Football Leagues 2007.

This news was conveyed to Henry Menezes, Consultant Sports Development of the Essel Group by Cdr Kehar Singh, President MDFA after a managing committee meeting yesterday evening, which was also attended by elite team managers Radhu Pradhan, Austin Coutinho, Irinio Vaz and Adip Kenkre, among others.

Welcoming the Essel Group's football club into its Elite Division fold, Kehar Singh said, ''My committee has graciously approved the entry of the Essel Group's football club into the Elite Division of the MDFA Leagues. Having gone through the list of players on their rolls I am confident they will give a good fight for top honours to teams like Mahindra United and Air India and qualify for the forthcoming 1st division of the NFL''.

'''With this noble decision of the management of the Essel Group, Mumbai football stands to flourish not only locally but spread over the entire world as was the case with Mahindra United when Henry was the manager there. It is needless to mention that nine players from Mahindra United under his guidance donned the national colours at one time. That speaks volumes of his contribution to Mumbai and Indian football and we wish the Essel Group all the best and good luck in their endeavour.'' The Essel Group's football initiative received a further shot in the arm in the form of praise from the other coaches of Elite Division teams.

Adip Kenkre, coach of Central Railway said, ''I am happy with their inclusion. We are looking forward to playing against better teams that will raise the standard of the game. I am confident that a team floated by the Essel Group will do everything in their power to come up with a top class team.'' Irinio Vaz, who has been guiding the fortunes of ONGC echoed his sentiments when he said, ''It's definitely a boost for Mumbai football. Young players from Mumbai will benefit from the entry of such big business houses into football. Their future will always be secure. It will also raise tremendously the standard of the game in the city.'' Welcoming the MDFA's positive gesture, Menezes said, ''We have gained tremendously by MDFA's positive gesture and are also confident of living up to their high expectations.'' UNI