Inter Kashi FC Triumphs in CAS Appeal Against Namdhari FC as I-League Title Hangs in the Balance

In a dramatic turn of events in the I-League 2024-25 season, Inter Kashi FC has emerged victorious in its first legal battle, with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruling in their favor against Namdhari FC. The decision, announced on Tuesday, sets aside a prior verdict by the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) independent appellate committee dated April 18, 2025, and restores the original decision of the Disciplinary Committee from February 24, 2025.

According to the Disciplinary Committee’s findings, Namdhari FC fielded an ineligible player during Match 45 of the I-League 2024-25. The outcome of that match has now officially been awarded as a 3-0 victory to Inter Kashi, following the CAS ruling. Inter Kashi, based in Varanasi, acknowledged the outcome on social media, stating that “The CAS award overturns the decision of the AIFF’s Appeal Committee, which had earlier deducted three points from the club in connection with its match against Namdhari.”

This CAS appeal win has major implications for the ongoing I-League title race. The revised points table sees Inter Kashi FC leap to 38 points, bringing them within striking distance of the top. Churchill Brothers currently lead the table with 42 points, but the championship remains undecided as Kashi has two more pending CAS cases.

These unresolved cases concern AIFF decisions in favor of Churchill Brothers and Real Kashmir FC over the re-registration of Spanish forward Mario Barco. If CAS rules in Kashi’s favor in both remaining appeals, their tally will rise to 42 points, while Churchill Brothers could drop to 40, potentially handing the I-League 2024-25 title to Inter Kashi.

The AIFF, which initially acted in accordance with its independent committee’s ruling, has confirmed that it will now implement the CAS decision. The federation’s next steps will depend on the outcome of the remaining CAS hearings.

As it stands, the I-League 2024-25 season is heading towards a nail-biting finish. With Inter Kashi FC, Churchill Brothers, and Real Kashmir FC all involved in the legal and sporting battle, fans await the final verdicts that could reshape the standings and decide the new I-League champion.

Summary of Key Developments:

CAS overturns AIFF Appeal Committee decision; Inter Kashi awarded 3-0 win over Namdhari FC.
Inter Kashi now sits at 38 points, behind Churchill Brothers at 42.
Two pending CAS appeals could swing the title in Kashi’s favor.
Mario Barco registration at the heart of ongoing disputes.