Sushmita Lepcha’s Personal Details
Name: Sushmita Lepcha
Date of Birth: 19 March 1996
Birthplace: Kalimpong, West Bengal, India
Position: Defender
Sushmita Lepcha is a determined and resilient defender in Indian women’s football who has steadily built her career through dedication and perseverance. Representing East Bengal FC in the Indian Women’s League and the India women’s national team, she is known for her disciplined defensive play, work rate, and ability to adapt under pressure.
Her journey from the hills of Kalimpong in northern West Bengal to international football reflects the growing opportunities in Indian women’s football and the determination required to succeed in the sport.
Sushmita Lepcha grew up in Kalimpong, a region where opportunities for girls to pursue football professionally were limited. Her introduction to the sport came from watching her elder brother play football, which sparked her interest in the game. A local coach eventually took her to participate in tournaments in nearby towns such as Darjeeling, expanding her exposure to organized football and allowing her to showcase her potential beyond her hometown.
Sushmita’s competitive football journey progressed when she joined Sevayani Social Welfare Club in the Calcutta Women’s Football League, where she gained valuable match experience and recognition. Her performances opened the door for opportunities outside West Bengal. She later played for PIFA Sports FC and then Kickstart FC in 2020, where she refined her defensive skills and gained experience competing at higher levels of Indian women’s football.
Strong performances at club and state competitions eventually earned her a move to East Bengal FC Women, one of the most historic football clubs in India. At East Bengal, she trained alongside several Indian internationals and experienced a more professional football environment, helping elevate her overall game. The club’s success in the 2024-25 Indian Women’s League also provided her exposure to continental competitions such as the AFC Women’s Champions League, giving her valuable experience against stronger international opponents.
Sushmita has also represented West Bengal in the Senior Women’s National Football Championship (Rajmata Jijabai Trophy). Her performances at both club and state level eventually led to national recognition.
Sushmita Lepcha received a call-up to the India women’s national team ahead of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup, marking a significant milestone in her career. Interestingly, her selection came as a surprise; she discovered she had been included in the national squad when she was added to the team’s WhatsApp group before receiving official confirmation from her coach. The moment symbolized the culmination of years of perseverance and growth from grassroots football to the international stage.
