Kannur: The Kannur Warriors Football Club is back to reclaim the title lost in their first season. Despite heavy rain, a vibrant event marking the official team announcement and jersey unveiling for the second season of the Super League Kerala took place at Payyambalam Beach. Thousands of fans attended as popular football commentator Shaju Damodaran introduced the team members.
Actor Asif Ali, the club’s celebrity partner, alongside club officials, revealed the new jersey. Local goalkeeper Ubaid C.K., Spanish striker Adrián Sardinero, and Cameroonian player Ernestine Lavasamba were announced as the captain for the upcoming season. The event saw participation from several dignitaries, including club chairman Dr. Hassan Kunhi and Kerala Football Association president Nawaz Miran.
Dr. Hassan Kunhi stated that women and children under 12 can watch home matches for free in an effort to promote football among Kannur’s youth. Asif Ali mentioned that he was a cricket fan before being captivated by football upon arriving in Kannur.
Attendees enjoyed activities such as penalty shootouts and bottle flips, with prizes for the winners. The event concluded early due to the heavy rain.
Free Entry for Women and Children
Women and children below 12 can watch matches at Kannur Municipal Jawaharlal Stadium for free, as announced by club chairman Dr. Hassan Kunhi during the jersey unveiling at Payyambalam Beach. This offer applies to league matches. The Kannur Warriors will host five matches at the stadium during the season.
Team Squad
Goalkeepers: Ubaid C.K., Mithun.V., Alkish Raj.T.
Defenders: Nicolás Delmonte (Argentina), Sachin Sunny, Sandeep S, Vikas Saini, Manoj S, Ashwin Kumar, Pavan Kumar, Basith PP, Shibin Sadiq M.
Midfielders: Asier Gómez (Spain), Ernestine Lavasamba (Cameroon), Nidal Said (Tunisia), Asif O.M., Ajay Krishnan K, Abin Das, Mohammad Nasif.
Forwards: Adrián Sardinero (Spain), Abdulkareem Samba (Senegal), Gokul S, Mohammad Sanad, Shijin T, Arshad, Arjun, Mohammed Sinan.
Coaches: Manuel Sánchez (Spain, head coach), Shafiq Hassan Mathathu (assistant coach), Eldo Paul (goalkeeper coach).