American-raised Kerawala joins Bangladesh's goalkeeping battle

 
Bangladesh's search for fresh faces has reached the United States, with 29-year-old goalkeeper Saif Kerawala now training with the national team under German head coach Thomas Dooley.

The 28-member squad is preparing for the upcoming FIFA ASEAN Cup, with goalkeeper Mitul Marma the latest established player to join the camp. Alongside them, Dooley has opened the door to overseas-raised players, making performance the yardstick for selection.

Kerawala, who stands at around 6ft 4in (1.93m), has spent much of his footballing life in the United States. Born in Bellevue, Washington, he came through Eastside FC and the Seattle Sounders Academy before playing for Seattle Sounders 2 and Tacoma Defiance. 

He later featured for Crossfire Redmond and Washington Athletic Club. The University of Washington records him as a 6ft 4in goalkeeper and note his strong performances in the Pac-12, including seven clean sheets in 2017.

Kerawala is eligible to represent Bangladesh through his father, who was born in the country. His arrival therefore adds both physical presence and a different goalkeeping pedigree to Dooley's options.

Bangladesh captain Jamal Bhuiyan has already welcomed the newcomer, posting a photograph with the goalkeepers and describing Kerawala as a new teammate who has travelled from Washington.

Dooley, however, is keeping his cards close to his chest. "Performance is the most important thing," the coach said, stressing that those who impress in the trial will earn their opportunity.

Kerawala is thus not being handed a shirt; he is being asked to knock on the door, and force it open.