Mumbai, September 4, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
India women’s hockey goalkeeper Bichu Devi Karibam has been shortlisted for the Poligras Magic Skill Award of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for two outstanding last-minute saves against England at the recently concluded FIH Hockey World Cup.
The fan-voted award, presented separately in the men’s and women’s categories, recognises exceptional skills and memorable moments from the World Cup held in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Bichu Devi’s crucial saves against England feature alongside Belgium’s Judith Vandermeiren, nominated for a skilful goal against Germany, and Germany’s Yani Zhong, whose impressive dribbling helped create a goal.
Bichu Devi played a key role in India’s campaign, helping the team finish fifth at the World Cup — its best performance in recent times.
“From breathtaking individual skill and spectacular goals to dramatic finishes and outstanding saves, the tournament delivered countless moments of magic on hockey’s biggest stage,” the FIH said in a statement.
The federation added that fans worldwide could vote for their favourite magical skill from the tournament.
In the men’s category, the shortlist features Pakistan’s Abdul Rehman for his 3D skills, France’s Eliot Curty for creating a goal from an extremely difficult angle, and South Africa’s Kenton Melville for a spectacular no-look goal.
Fans can vote for the Poligras Magic Skill Award through the FIH’s official website. The award celebrates creativity, flair and technical excellence while highlighting performances that push the boundaries of hockey.
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