Kathmandu: Martyrs Memorial ‘B’ Division League side Saraswati Youth Club has accused the All Nepal Football Association (ANFA) of suspending striker Dhirendra Bahadur Shah with ill intent, following a dispute over his eligibility.

Shah, who scored in both of Saraswati’s opening matches—a 2-1 win against Bansbari Club and a 1-0 victory over Nayabasti Club—was suspended by ANFA after the second fixture. The governing body acted on a protest filed by Nayabasti, which claimed Shah had not been officially released by his former club, Shree Tushal Youth Club.

In response, ANFA not only suspended the 22-year-old forward but also overturned the 1-0 result in favor of Saraswati, awarding Nayabasti a 3-0 victory.

Saraswati Youth Club President Uttam Raj Bhandari criticised the decision, suggesting political motivations.

“ANFA made this decision without properly investigating the facts. It seems politically driven and could seriously damage the career of a promising player,” Bhandari told at a press conference on Monday.

He further alleged that ANFA harbored resentment toward the club, stating, “They’re trying to settle political scores through the player. This is unfair to the athlete, who should not be a victim of football politics.”

According to documents presented at a press conference, Shah’s contract with Tushal was set to expire on April 12, 2024 (end of 2080 BS). Saraswati claims the agreement became void after Tushal failed to pay even the first 20 percent installment two years ago. Shah signed a new contract with Saraswati ahead of the current season.

Shah expressed frustration over the suspension, calling it “disappointing.” “I had requested a release letter from Tushal, but they refused. It feels like I’m being personally targeted,” he said.

Bhandari also questioned ANFA’s registration process. “When ANFA requested clubs to submit lists of contracted players before the season, Tushal did not include Shah. Saraswati was the only club to register him, and ANFA approved it via the FIFA Connect App,” he said.

He added that Tushal appears unwilling to claim Shah as their player but is obstructing his career regardless.

Saraswati has taken the issue to the Patan High Court, focusing on contractual matters rather than on-field eligibility. “We are now forced to play without one of our key players, and both the club and the player are suffering. If such practices continue, it could discourage clubs from participating altogether,” Bhandari warned.