Shillong, Aug 23: Langsning FC’s Kyrmenskhem Mukhim and Nongkseh SS&CC’s Dawancha Carlos Challam have been named the Emerging Players of Group E in the 135th IndianOil Durand Cup.
The two Meghalaya players were recognised for their performances during the group stage and presented with a cash award of Rs. 1 lakh each by the Durand Cup Tournament Society during the semi-final between NorthEast United FC and Mohun Bagan Super Giant at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong on August 20.
Mukhim and Challam are among 11 young footballers recognised as Emerging Players across the six groups of this year’s tournament. The initiative is aimed at encouraging promising players and giving greater recognition to young footballers making an impact on the Durand Cup stage.
The other awardees were Md. Altab Hussain and Rinshid V of South United FC from Group A; Saikhom Borish Singh of Indian Army FT and Veer Arjun Joshi of Samaleswari Sporting from Group B; Samuel K. Vanlalpeka and Naorem Somananda Singh of Indian Air Force FT from Group C; Midul Doley of FC Raengdai from Group D; and Rituraj Mohan of Bodoland FC and Lalpekhlua Lalpekhlua of Karbi Anglong Morning Star FC from Group F.
Group E featured three Meghalaya clubs – Shillong Lajong FC, Nongkseh SS & CC and Langsning FC – along with Mumbay FC.
Mukhim was one of Langsning’s most influential attacking players during the group stage, scoring two goals and regularly pushing forward to create opportunities for the defending champions.
Challam, meanwhile, made his presence felt in midfield for Nongkseh, scoring two goals and providing an assist. His performances highlighted his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively.
The recognition also underlines the impact of young Meghalaya players during the Shillong leg of the Durand Cup, giving them an added incentive to continue developing and competing at higher levels.
For Mukhim and Challam, the Rs. 1 lakh award and Emerging Player recognition provide further encouragement after making their mark in one of Indian football’s most historic competitions.
