Indian women’s hockey star Deepika has earned global recognition after her brilliant field goal against the Netherlands was nominated for the prestigious Poligras Magic Skill Award for 2025. The teenager’s strike came during the FIH Pro League clash earlier this year and has been lauded by fans, experts, and former players as one of the most technically brilliant goals scored by an Indian woman in recent times.
What is the Poligras Magic Skill Award?
The Poligras Magic Skill Award, presented annually by the International Hockey Federation (FIH), celebrates the most skilful, creative, and impactful moments in world hockey across men’s and women’s competitions. It includes skills such as dribbles, 3D lifts, flicks, reverse hits, and combination plays that display extraordinary technical mastery.
Deepika’s nomination places her among the elite list of global stars whose individual brilliance has been recognised by the FIH and Poligras, the global hockey turf partner.
How Deepika’s goal unfolded
In the 47th minute of India’s Pro League fixture against the Netherlands in Bhubaneswar, Deepika received a pass near the edge of the circle with her back to goal. In a single swift movement, she turned past the Dutch defender with a reverse stick drag, lifted the ball over an incoming tackle, and unleashed a low tomahawk strike into the far corner, leaving the goalkeeper rooted.
| Match details | Event |
|---|---|
| Opponent | Netherlands |
| Competition | FIH Pro League 2025 |
| Quarter | 4th |
| Minute | 47th |
| Goal type | Field goal (reverse hit) |
| Outcome | India 1 – Netherlands 3 |
Despite India’s eventual defeat, Deepika’s goal was replayed worldwide and shared widely across social media for its combination of awareness, speed, and technical execution against one of the world’s strongest defensive units.
FIH lauds Deepika’s skill
In its nomination post, FIH described the goal as:
“A stunning moment of individual brilliance. Deepika showcased elite ball control, footwork, and reverse hitting power to score one of the season’s standout goals.”
Reactions from teammates and coaches
Indian women’s team captain Savita Punia commented:
“Deepika’s confidence at such a young age is inspiring for all of us. She is fearless, and this goal shows what she is capable of.”
Chief coach Janneke Schopman added:
“She has immense potential. This nomination will motivate her further to keep pushing her technical skills and creativity.”
Deepika’s reaction to her nomination
Speaking to Hockey India media after the announcement, Deepika said:
“I am very happy to be nominated for this award. I didn’t expect it. I just wanted to help my team that day. This motivates me to work harder and improve my skills further.”
Other nominees for the Poligras Magic Skill Award (Women)
| Player | Country | Skill |
|---|---|---|
| Felice Albers | Netherlands | 3D dribble & goal |
| Maria Granatto | Argentina | Spin and tomahawk goal |
| Deepika | India | Reverse drag & hit goal |
| Rosie Malone | Australia | Aerial reception & flick |
Hockey legends praise Deepika’s nomination
Former Indian women’s captain Rani Rampal tweeted:
“So proud of Deepika. Her skill levels are world class. Congratulations on this well-deserved nomination.”
Ex-Indian men’s captain Sardar Singh added:
“This is what Indian hockey needs – fearless youngsters with strong basics and creativity.”
Deepika’s journey: from Haryana to international fame
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2003 | Born in Hisar, Haryana |
| 2015 | Joined Hisar Hockey Academy |
| 2019 | Selected for India U-18 |
| 2021 | Debuted for India senior team |
| 2022 | Bronze medal, Asia Cup |
| 2023 | Scored maiden Pro League goal |
| 2025 | Nominated for Poligras Magic Skill Award |
Known for her technical flair and mental toughness, Deepika has become a vital part of India’s midfield and forward rotations, with Schopman frequently deploying her in impact roles to unlock tight defences.
Why this nomination matters for Indian women’s hockey
Indian women’s hockey has seen a steady rise in global recognition over the last five years, with improved rankings, Olympic qualification, and Pro League competitiveness. Nominations for individual awards like the Poligras Magic Skill highlight:
- The improved technical standards of Indian players
- The confidence to express individual skills against top teams
- The impact of grassroots training and Hockey India’s developmental programmes
Former coach Neil Hawgood noted:
“Earlier, Indian women’s hockey relied on team structure but now we are seeing technically gifted individuals like Deepika emerge, making India dangerous in one-on-one situations.”
What next for Deepika?
Deepika will be part of India’s squad for the upcoming Asian Champions Trophy later this year, where her skills and confidence will be crucial as India targets the gold medal. Hockey experts believe that with her current trajectory, she is poised to become one of Asia’s most impactful attacking midfielders by the 2026 Women’s World Cup.
Final thoughts
Deepika’s nomination for the Poligras Magic Skill Award is not just personal recognition but also a moment of pride for Indian women’s hockey. Her goal against the Netherlands serves as proof of the evolving technical brilliance among India’s young talents, inspiring the next generation to dream big, train harder, and play fearlessly on the world stage.
Disclaimer: This news article is for informational purposes only. It includes match details, player statements, and expert analyses based on public broadcasts and official tournament announcements. Final award results remain subject to FIH confirmation and public voting outcomes.
