Can Inter Kashi Still Clinch the I-League Title? CAS Verdict Offers New Hope Amid Controversy

In a season marred by twists, legal disputes, and reversed verdicts, Inter Kashi’s hopes of lifting their maiden I-League trophy have been reignited after a significant breakthrough at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). While the Kashi Warriors celebrate a partial victory, the real prize — promotion to the Indian Super League (ISL) — remains tantalisingly out of reach until the second ruling arrives. The ongoing legal tussle could reshape the I-League standings dramatically, leaving fans wondering: can Inter Kashi still finish champions?

CAS Overturns AIFF’s Penalty on Inter Kashi

The season’s first major controversy erupted during Inter Kashi’s 2-1 win against Namdhari FC, which was initially nullified by the All India Football Federation (AIFF) due to the alleged ineligibility of Cledson da Silva. The AIFF Appeals Committee not only cancelled the result but also docked three points from Inter Kashi’s total tally, a setback that briefly dented their title ambitions.

However, Inter Kashi contested the decision, escalating the matter to the CAS. In a landmark ruling, CAS sided with Inter Kashi, reinstating the crucial three points. This judgment propelled the team to second place in the standings, reigniting their campaign for I-League glory.

The Second Case: Barco’s Controversial Return

Even as celebrations broke out over the first victory, Inter Kashi’s battle was far from over. The next hurdle involves Spanish forward Barco, whose eligibility has become the focal point of yet another legal dispute.

Earlier in the season, Barco had been replaced by Matija Babovic after suffering what was believed to be a season-ending injury. However, following the termination of Julen Perez’s contract during the January transfer window, Barco re-joined the squad. This move didn’t sit well with rival clubs — Churchill Brothers, Namdhari FC, and Real Kashmir FC — who swiftly lodged complaints, arguing that league regulations forbade the re-registration of players previously ruled out for the season.

The AIFF Appeals Committee sided with the opposing clubs, stating that such re-registration violated established league protocols. Inter Kashi, however, countered the ruling, pointing to Article 13.1.5 of the league’s regulations, which empowers the League Committee to interpret and clarify grey areas in the rules. The club emphasized that Barco’s registration had been approved by the Committee itself, asserting that their interpretation should stand as binding.

How Inter Kashi Could Secure the I-League Title

Inter Kashi’s current position sees them trailing leaders Churchill Brothers by just four points, with 38 points to their name. If CAS rules in their favour on the Barco dispute, it could dramatically shift the league standings.

Here’s the scenario:

• If Inter Kashi win the second appeal: Four more points would be added to their tally.
• Impact on Churchill Brothers: They would simultaneously lose two points, reducing their total from 42 to 40.
• Final Standings: Inter Kashi would jump to 42 points, overtaking Churchill Brothers and claiming the title.

It’s a razor-thin margin that places enormous weight on the upcoming CAS judgment.

Promotion Dreams Hang in the Balance

Winning the I-League isn’t just about lifting the trophy — it also carries the much-coveted reward of promotion to the Indian Super League. For Inter Kashi, a club making waves in their debut I-League season, this would mark a monumental achievement. Their promotion, however, hinges entirely on the outcome of the ongoing legal proceedings. Should the CAS deliver a favourable verdict, it could usher in a new era for the club from Varanasi.

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