Shamit Som Begins Process to Play for Bangladesh

Sports Desk

Bangladeshi football fans may soon witness another dream come true. After British-Bangladeshi Hamza Choudhury, Canadian national team midfielder Shamit Som has initiated the process to represent Bangladesh in international football. His agent anticipates Shamit’s debut could take place in the June match against Singapore.

The 27-year-old player traces his roots to Sylhet, Bangladesh. His parents, Manas Som and Nandita Som, are Sylheti natives who later settled in Canada, where Shamit was born and raised. Despite having played two friendly matches and representing Canada’s youth team, Shamit remains eligible to switch allegiance under FIFA rules as he has not participated in competitive matches for Canada.

Currently excelling in the Canadian Premier League for Cavalry FC, Shamit is in the final stages of formalizing his eligibility. His agent, Amit Hasan, confirmed that efforts are underway to complete his birth registration, followed by passport applications for the entire family. “Shamit holds a Canadian passport. We’re now finalizing his birth registration. His parents haven’t renewed their Bangladeshi passports since 1993, so we’re working to prepare all required documentation for FIFA’s approval. We expect the birth registration by Sunday or Monday, after which Shamit will visit the Bangladesh Embassy. If all goes well, he could join the team by June,” Amit said.

Bangladesh is set to face Singapore on June 10 in an Asian Cup qualifier. Fans are hopeful that the match will feature both Hamza Choudhury and Shamit Som wearing the red and green jersey, marking another milestone for Bangladesh football.