Current India custodian Subrata Paul and midfielder Syed Rahim Nabi were the big signings by Mumbai franchise on day one of the two-day inaugural eight-team Hero Indian Super League domestic players draft held here on Tuesday.
The other major signings for the day were defenders Nirmal Chetri and Gouramangi Singh, who were drafted in by Kerala Blasters and Bengaluru franchise, respectively.
A total of 32 players who had played for India over the last three years are part of the two-day domestic player draft. The international player draft will be held in mid-August.
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The remaining 42 players from a total strength of 84 will be picked by the six franchises on Wednesday.
According to informed sources the top bracket of players would rake in Rs 80 lakh for the season while the next rung Rs 75 lakh, though the ISL organisers have refused to reveal the amount for which the players drafted in have been signed for.
Paul, who has plied his trade in Denmark for a brief while in recent times, was of the opinion that the ISL would benefit the Indian national team.
“I have played a few matches in Denmark and I feel the Indian players have the ability to play in European leagues.
The ISL is a good platform and there is good amount of interest among the players about it. It will also help the national team,” Paul said.
Goa announced that they have roped in Jewel Raja while North East United FC said they had singed up Zomingliana Ralte.
Defender Dharamraj Ravanan expressed happiness over being part of the Pune franchise.
Among others, Francis Fernades was preferred by Delhi while Lenny Fernandes was taken by Pune.
The tournament is organised by IMG-Reliance and supported by the All India Football Federation.