Mawlai SC Set for Historic I-League 3 Debut, Face Sikkim Brotherhood on April 27

Addressing a press conference on 21st April 2026, Club president Marcel Kharbani said Mawlai SC secured qualification for the 2025–26 I-League 3 after clinching the Meghalaya State League title. He described the participation as a historic milestone, marking the club’s first appearance in the national-level competition.

Mawlai SC has been placed in Group A alongside FC Raengdai, Sikkim Brotherhood Football Club, Sunrise Club Orissa, and ARA FC. The team will be coached by Hering Shangpliang.

Kharbani noted that the club has yet to secure major sponsorship, though a few individuals from Mawlai have stepped in to offer support. He said the club has approached the state government for financial assistance and submitted the required documents, but is still awaiting a response regarding the extent of support.

Coach Hering Shangpliang said preparations were limited due to uncertainty over the team’s participation, with confirmation coming only in March. Despite the short notice, he said the team has made efforts to prepare as best as possible.

He added that Mawlai’s participation could pave the way for other clubs from the state, noting that promotion to I-League 2 would open up opportunities for more teams to compete at the I-League 3 level.

The coach also highlighted that the squad comprises primarily local players, with only one outside addition due to a scheduling clash with the ongoing Meghalaya State League.

Club secretary Mawkordor Nongsiej said the total expenditure for the campaign is estimated at ₹50–60 lakh. He added that the local MLA has extended support through the Special Rural Works Programme (SRWP) and has assured further assistance, though the exact amount remains uncertain.

Team captain Daman Bhalang Chyne said the club is aiming to secure promotion to I-League 2. He was accompanied at the press conference by vice-captain Robertson Malkovich Khongriah and teammate Fairming Suting.