Mumbay FC's Durand Cup match in Shillong to procee...

By Rohan Gupta — 10 August 2026 — 3 min read

Shroff cites work commitment for absence

Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff will not participate in Mumbay FC’s Durand Cup match against Nongkseh SS&CC of Meghalaya in Shillong. Shroff cited a last-minute work commitment as the reason for his absence from the prestigious football tournament. This decision leaves both fans and the team disappointed, as there was considerable anticipation surrounding his potential appearance.

Shroff conveyed his regret through an Instagram video posted on the club’s profile. He expressed that he was genuinely looking forward to playing for Mumbay FC but was unable to make it to Shillong due to the unexpected work obligation. He extended his best wishes to the team and acknowledged the tournament’s quality.

The actor had been included in the Mumbay FC squad for the tournament but did not feature in their two previous Group E matches. The team has already been eliminated from the Durand Cup, having lost both of their initial group stage fixtures. Their losses included a 0-5 defeat to Langsning, another Meghalaya side, and an identical scoreline against Shillong Lajong.

Mumbay FC’s Durand Cup journey

Mumbay FC, established in 2024, competes in the Mumbai Premier League and I-League 3, which is the fourth division of India’s domestic football structure. The club had opened its Durand Cup campaign against Langsning FC on August 3. Following that, they faced hosts Shillong Lajong FC on August 8. Their final group stage match was scheduled against Nongkseh SS&CC on August 11.

Tiger Shroff’s association with Mumbay FC dates back to the club’s founding in 2024. He has regularly represented the side in the Mumbai District League. His involvement with the club reportedly began in 2023 when Zoheb Khan, Mumbay FC’s technical director, noticed him playing in an influencer football league. Khan was reportedly impressed by Shroff’s technical abilities and understanding of the game, leading to an invitation for the actor to train with the team after its formation.

Anticipation and planning for Shroff’s debut

Khan had previously mentioned that Tiger Shroff adapted quickly to the team’s playing style and showed eagerness to test himself in a professional competition. Shroff is described as an attacking player, often deployed as a forward or left winger, who enjoys taking on defenders in one-on-one situations and is not hesitant to make tackles, making him a valuable option in the final third.

The club had been carefully planning for Shroff’s potential appearance, anticipating that his presence could attract significant crowds. Khan had stressed the need for extensive security arrangements, particularly in smaller venues, to manage the expected fan turnout. While the club had received tentative confirmation of Shroff’s availability, they were hoping all logistical arrangements could be finalized to allow him to feature in one of the matches.

Shroff, who made his Bollywood debut with Heropanti in 2014, made his debut for Mumbay FC in 2024. His inclusion in the Durand Cup squad had generated considerable buzz ahead of the tournament, with many eager to see him transition his passion for football into a competitive appearance on one of India’s prominent football stages. However, his work commitment ultimately prevented his participation in the Durand Cup match in Shillong.

Source: m.rediff.com