Ryan Williams’ long-awaited Indian national team debut will be put on hold, as the late arrival of his No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Football Australia has rendered him ineligible for the November 18 AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier against Bangladesh.
The forward renounced his Australian citizenship earlier this month to secure an Indian passport, driven by his Indian roots—his maternal grandfather Lincoln Grostate represented the Western India Football Association in the 1950s, and twin brother Aryn previously played for NEROCA in India’s I-League (2017-2019). Williams had already featured in a closed-door friendly against Bhutan on November 13, donning the iconic No. 11 jersey vacated by the retired Sunil Chhetri.
However, official competitive appearances require FIFA and AFC registration, which hinges on the NOC from his former football association. “Ryan received his NOC from Australia earlier today (November 18),” a source with knowledge of the situation informed Sportstar. “His paperwork will now be submitted to FIFA for AFC registration, but the deadline for including him in today’s matchday squad was 11:59 pm yesterday.”
Williams began the process of switching nationalities six months ago. A seasoned campaigner with club experience in the UK and Australia—including winning the 2016 English Football League Trophy with Barnsley—he joined Bengaluru FC in 2023, contributing 13 goals and 5 assists in 46 appearances while operating as an inside forward, winger, and partner to Chhetri in attack.
India, already eliminated from 2027 Asian Cup contention after four winless qualifier matches, has two fixtures remaining: Tuesday’s clash with Bangladesh and a home game against Hong Kong, China on March 31 next year—offering Williams a potential debut opportunity.
