On Thursday, Bikash Yumnam became the first Indian to make The Guardian's 'Next Generation' list - a selection of the best young footballers on the planet, published annually by the English newspaper. The list, run from 2014, has featured some of the most exciting talent in world football, and Yumnam now finds himself in elite company.
The 17-year old centre-back first hit international spotlight about five weeks ago through a 40-second Instagram clip, filmed during last season's I-League, showcasing a rather unique talent of his: long throws.
The video shows Yumnam, playing for Indian Arrows, taking a throw-in against Mohun Bagan. He takes a small run-up and hurls a mammoth long throw into Bagan's penalty box. The chance wasn't converted, but Yumnam's skill certainly got some attention.
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