Thimphu, Bhutan / Pakyong, Sikkim – August 25, 2025:
In the world of football, where talent often takes years to mature, one name has emerged as a rare exception—Abhista Basnett, a 14-year-old midfielder from Pakyong District, Sikkim. Representing India in the SAFF U-17 Women’s Championship 2025 in Bhutan, she has not only scored goals but also captured hearts, proving herself as a beacon of hope for the future of Indian women’s football.
Early Life and Beginnings
Born to Mr. Reewaj Basnet and Mrs. Sakila Rai in Pakyong, Abhista showed a love for football from a very young age. Unlike many children who discover sports casually, Abhista displayed a natural instinct and energy for the game. By the age of 8, she was already competing in tournaments across the hills of Sikkim, often pitted against senior players.
What set her apart was not just her willingness to play but her ability to outshine older and more experienced opponents. Scoring goals, assisting teammates, and showcasing sharp dribbling skills, she earned a reputation as a child prodigy. Her talent was evident during the Open Women’s League in Sikkim, where she dribbled past three defenders to score a remarkable solo goal—a moment still remembered by local football fans.
Early Recognition and Inspiration
Abhista’s potential was quickly recognized. She was compared to Anju Tamang, another footballer from Sikkim who represents India’s National Women’s Team. Such comparisons, while flattering, came with responsibility, and Abhista embraced them with maturity.
Adding to her inspiration, she got the chance to meet some of India’s national players during the India vs Bangladesh World Cup Qualifiers in Kolkata. For a young girl passionate about football, standing among her idols fueled her determination to one day wear the Indian jersey herself.
Breakthrough at the SAFF U-17 Championship 2025
That dream became reality in August 2025, when Abhista was selected to represent India in the SAFF U-17 Women’s Championship in Bhutan. Her performances went beyond expectations:
- In the opening match against Nepal (20 August 2025), she scored two goals (16’, 41’), contributing to India’s emphatic 7–0 win.
- In the second match against Bhutan (25 August 2025), she once again struck twice (23’, 89’), helping India secure an 8–0 victory.
Her brace against Bhutan earned her the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, cementing her status as one of the brightest young talents in South Asian football.
Recognition and Pride
Sikkim’s Chief Minister publicly celebrated her achievement, saying:
“A moment of immense pride for Sikkim as Ms. Abhista Basnett from Pakyong represents the state in the ongoing SAFF U-17 Women’s Championship in Bhutan. She didn’t just make an appearance, she made a statement by scoring a brilliant brace. Your hard work and dedication are truly inspiring. May you continue to grow and achieve greater heights in the years to come.”
The Indian Gorkha community has also rallied behind her, sharing her story widely on social media and celebrating her as a role model for young athletes in the hills. For many, she represents more than just a footballer—she is a symbol of resilience, discipline, and hope.
Match Summary: India vs Bhutan (8–0)
- Abhista Basnett (23’, 89’)
- Anushka Kumari (53’, 61’, 72’)
- Pearl Fernandes (71’)
- Divyani Linda (77’)
- Valaina Jada Fernandes (90+2’)
Why Abhista’s Journey Matters
Abhista’s rise is not only about individual talent; it reflects the potential of grassroots football in Sikkim and India’s North-East. For years, the region has quietly produced players like Bhaichung Bhutia and Anju Tamang, and Abhista Basnett is now the newest name on this list.
Her journey emphasizes the importance of early exposure, community support, and consistent training in nurturing talent. It also shows young girls across India that football can be more than a hobby—it can be a career, a passion, and a path to represent the nation.
Also Read: Sikkim New Route: The Shortest and Most Scenic Way to Explore North, South, and West Sikkim
The Road Ahead
At 14, Abhista has only just begun her journey. With the right guidance, training, and opportunities, she could soon find herself playing not only at the national level but also in international leagues. For now, her focus remains on contributing to India’s campaign in the SAFF U-17 Women’s Championship 2025, but her long-term trajectory suggests much bigger achievements ahead.
Conclusion: A Star in the Making
From Pakyong’s playgrounds to the international stage in Bhutan, Abhista Basnett has shown that passion, talent, and determination can break barriers. She is not only an inspiration for aspiring athletes in Sikkim but also a role model for young girls across India who dream of playing professional football.
At an age when most teenagers are just beginning to chase dreams, Abhista Basnett is already living hers—and inspiring thousands to believe that they can too.