Entertainment

IIE DIGITAL: Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff is reportedly preparing to make his debut in the prestigious Durand Cup after being included in the Mumbai FC squad for the 135th edition of Asia’s oldest football tournament.

According to media reports, Shroff has been training regularly with the team and could feature in Mumbai FC’s final Group E fixture if logistical and security arrangements are completed. The club is scheduled to travel to Shillong on July 30 for its group-stage campaign.

Speaking to Sportstar, Mumbai FC Technical Director Zoheb Khan confirmed that the actor has been registered with the squad but said his participation depends on security planning.

"He is registered with the squad, and we are trying our best to make everything possible. Given Tiger Shroff's popularity, additional security will be required, especially in smaller cities where large crowds may gather. If everything falls into place, he is expected to travel with the team for one of the matches," Khan said.

Shroff has been associated with Mumbai FC since 2024, when he launched the club and became its brand ambassador. The actor has also been seen taking part in football training sessions with the team, including in videos shared on the club's official social media platforms.

Mumbai FC has enjoyed a rapid rise through Indian football in recent years. After winning the inaugural Maharashtra State Club League Championship, the club secured third place in the I-League 3 last season, earning its maiden qualification for the Durand Cup.

The club has been drawn in Group E alongside Shillong Lajong FC, Nongkseh Sports & Cultural Club and Langsning FC, with all group-stage matches scheduled to be played in Shillong.

If he takes the field, Shroff will join the growing list of Bollywood personalities associated with Indian football. Actor John Abraham, co-owner of NorthEast United FC, has also played a significant role in promoting the sport, with his club winning the Durand Cup in each of the previous two editions.

Established in 1888, the Durand Cup remains Asia's oldest football competition and the third-oldest football tournament in the world. Initially introduced for British military personnel in India, it has evolved into one of the country's most prestigious domestic football tournaments.

Away from football, Tiger Shroff was last seen in the action film Baaghi 4, directed by A. Harsha, alongside Sanjay Dutt, Sonam Bajwa, Shreyas Talpade, Upendra Limaye, Saurabh Sachdeva and Nikhat Khan.