England men's Blind squad named for IBSA Nations Cup

The England men’s Blind squad for this month’s IBSA Nations Cup in India has been selected.

Head coach Adam Bendall has picked a ten-man squad for the trip, which will see the Para Lions face opposition from Iran, India, Italy, Poland and Korea Republic.

The competition is being held between 25 September and 1 October at the United Sports Centre in Kakkanad in Kochi, with games to be streamed live by IBSA once the fixture dates have been confirmed.

Following the conclusion of the men’s tournament, India will then host the IBSA Blind Women’s World Championship between 6 and 12 October, with the Para Lionesses squad due to be named on Monday 29 September.

“We’re really looking forward to the challenge of competing competitively again at the IBSA Nations Cup,” said Bendall.

“It’s an exciting opportunity for us to give four players their first taste of competitive tournament football, which is a valuable step in their development and the teams overall development.

“Our aim is to continue implementing our style of play while ensuring we remain competitive throughout the tournament.

“At the same time, we recognise that this event is part of a bigger journey, with our ultimate focus firmly on preparing for the European Championships next year.

“Making sure that we take the necessary learnings away from the Nations Cup to implement next August at the Euros and wider target of qualification to LA 2028.”

The Squad

Dylan Malpas, Sam Meisel, Roy Turnham, Azeem Amir, Efe Shimwell, Eesa Amjid, Rainbow Mbguani, Oliver Johnson, Kieran Clarke, Toby Addison