Reports suggest Shabong has moved closer to a first senior appearance as India finalise plans for the Unity Cup. The update says changes around the squad - including withdrawals elsewhere and a fitness issue affecting another player - may have improved his path into the group.
That does not guarantee a debut, of course. But it does place Shabong in a conversation he has clearly been chasing for years: one about trust, timing and whether he can offer energy in midfield when the door opens.
There is no need to overcomplicate his motivation. “Joguei pelas equipes de base. Mas, agora que fui selecionado para a seleção principal, estou muito empolgado e quero lutar ainda mais para representar meu país e deixar minha mãe, meu pai e todos que me apoiam orgulhosos,” Shabong added.
That is the language of a player who understands both the scale of the badge and the fragility of opportunity. Senior international football can move quickly. One training camp can elevate a prospect; one strong cameo can turn a placeholder into a real option.
There is also a wider theme here. Meghalaya has not traditionally produced senior India regulars at the same rate as some neighbouring football regions. Shabong now appears to be one of the clearest signs that the pathway is widening.
If he takes this chance, the story will not just be about one midfielder edging toward a debut. It will be about what comes next - for India, for Punjab FC, and for the next player from Meghalaya daring to think the senior shirt is within reach.