Male, March 25 -- The turquoise waters and calm surroundings of the Maldives provide a picturesque backdrop, but inside the Indian camp, the focus is firmly on business. Leading the India U20 men's national team as the head coach at the SAFF U20 Championship, Mahesh Gawali, who is also the India senior men's team's assistant coach.

The former Blue Tigers defender has wasted little time in getting the players aligned with the objectives for the tournament, according to an All India Football Federation (AIFF) release.

From the moment the squad landed in Male, emphasis has been on clarity, sharpness, and readiness for competitive action. The Blue Colts will face Pakistan (March 26) and Bangladesh (March 28) in Group B.

Both matches will k...