ISL’s Homegrown Heroes: The Ultimate Indian XI That Defined a Decade

As the Indian Super League celebrates over a decade of growth of the beautiful game, a well-chosen all-time Indian XI is evidence of the domestic heroes who have made the league what it is. With no-nonsense defenders, creative midfielders, and match-winners as forwards, these players have left an indelible stamp on Indian football.

Defensive wall

Goalkeeper Vishal Kaith is the back-line chief with 54 clean sheets and two Golden Gloves, anchoring Mohun Bagan Super Giant's supremacy

Pritam Kotal, with more than 180 appearances, offers versatility along with leadership in centre-back and right-back positions

The central pair consists of Rahul Bheke and Sandesh Jhingan, with big-match temperament complementing their aerial quality and grit

Subhasish Bose, the undisputed left-back, led MBSG to a record ISL double

Midfield masters

Even at the tender age of 24, Apuia Lalengmawia Ralte has played 113 games and shown maturity and calmness.

Anirudh Thapa, the box-to-box dynamo, switched from Chennaiyin FC to MBSG, along with a haul of trophies

Brandon Fernandes, top scorer among Indian playmakers in the league, has created 279 opportunities and remains a set-piece specialist

Attacking flair

Mumbai City FC skipper Lallianzuala Chhangte is a right-sided showman with pace and precision

Indian clutch player Bipin Singh had won two ISL finals for Mumbai City FC with winning goals

Sunil Chhetri, the highest Indian scorer in history, is the league's focal striker and emotional heartbeat

Sources: Official website of Indian Super League, WebIndia123, Khel Now, News WebIndia123.