Back to the International Newsfeed

Ashalata Devi: We want to qualify for AFC Asian Cup on merit

Ashalata Devi is one of the softspoken players in the Indian squad. But beneath the calm demeanour, there is character forged in fire. She is the perfect embodiment of the phrase, 'action speaks louder than words.'

When she was discouraged and rebuked by her family for playing football in childhood she would silently sneak out and go to practice. Braving the naysayers in her close quarters she has followed her heart and now she is the captain of the Indian women's football team.

On the field, she remains calm and composed but does not hold back her aggression if the opposition striker tries to be cheeky.