In the competitive landscape of Indian women’s football, certain individuals stand out not just for their performance on the pitch, but for their commitment to fostering the next generation of talent. VK Srutilakshmi Ranjish is one such figure. A formidable defender who anchors the backline for the Mumbai Knights FC Women in the MFA Women’s Premier League, she has now taken on a crucial leadership role off the pitch. Srutilakshmi is proving her value as both a player and a respected coach.

The Defender’s Role and Impact

As a dedicated Defender, Srutilakshmi’s primary role for the Mumbai Knights FC is to organize the defense, shut down attacks, and provide a reliable presence. In the 2024-25 Season of the MFA Women’s Premier League, her impact was instrumental. In the 12 games she featured in, the team achieved a strong 100% Win Ratio, Furthermore, she contributed 1 Total Goal in the season, showcasing her ability to add an offensive spark when needed, proving that reliability and versatility go hand-in-hand.

Transition to the Sidelines – Coaching Team Maharashtra

Perhaps the most inspiring development in Srutilakshmi’s career is her recent appointment as the Head Coach for the Maharashtra Sub-Junior Girls Football Team for the Sub-Junior Girls National Football Championship 2025-26. This selection, confirmed by the Western India Football Association (WIFA), speaks volumes about her leadership qualities and deep tactical knowledge, earning her the trust to mentor the state’s brightest young players.

Leading the Sub-Juniors to National Success

Under Coach Srutilakshmi’s leadership, Team Maharashtra delivered an outstanding performance at the National Championship in Jorhat, Assam. They showed resilience, tactical organization, and clinical finishing, navigating a tough group stage with impressive victories:

Maharashtra vs Odisha Won 4-0
Haryana vs Maharashtra Walkover
West Bengal vs Maharashtra Won 3-1

Their dominant run saw them power through the group stage and into the Semi-Finals, where they faced a formidable Jharkhand side. Despite a valiant effort, the young girls ultimately fell just short, losing with a final score of 0-1. Reaching the semi-finals is a huge accomplishment and a testament to the hard work and guidance provided by Head Coach Srutilakshmi Ranjish.

I’m still learning every day, whether it’s anchoring the defense for my club or organizing the sidelines for Maharashtra. Football is my greatest teacher, and I’m just happy to be able to give back everything it’s given me.

A Future of Influence

From shutting down strikers as a player for Mumbai Knights FC to developing future stars as the Head Coach of the Maharashtra Sub-Junior Girls, VK Srutilakshmi is embodying leadership and dedication in Indian football. Her dual role not only highlights her versatility but cements her status as a profoundly influential figure in the sport. Her journey is one to watch closely as she continues to inspire both on and off the field.