Bichu Devi Kharibam: Rising Star of India's Women's Hockey Team

New Delhi, Sep 16: "The years of hardship and dedication have been worthwhile," states Bichu Devi Kharibam, the goalkeeper of India's Women's Hockey Team, upon her inclusion in the Asian Games 2023 roster.

The Manipur-born athlete sports 14 international caps, affirming her standing in the game. Hailing from Manipur, a state known for its Football fervour, it was a predictable course for young Bichu Devi to pursue Football. But fate saw a different path for her.

Picking Hockey Over Football

"Originating from Manipur, Football seemed an obvious choice. I was enamoured by the game. However, my father advised me to venture into hockey, citing my exclusion from the football squad. He convinced me that if hockey wasn’t to my liking, I could return to Football anytime," Bichu shared.

She fell in love with the game once she began playing. Despite initially playing as a striker, her agility, height, and a suggestion from her coach led her to try goalkeeping. Her journey in goalkeeping began on a tough note, but she gradually grew into the role.

Bichu affirms, "Everything happens for a reason which often is in our best interest. Otherwise, my journey wouldn’t have landed me here.” Jump to 2023, nearly ten years after her foray into hockey, the spirited Manipuri player is heading to Hangzhou, where she'll join team India in their pursuit of Gold at the 19th Asian Games.

Rise of Bichu Devi to Senior Women's Hockey Team

Her career trajectory has been on a swift rise following her remarkable performances at the 2018 Youth Olympics in Argentina where India secured the esteemed Silver medal. In 2019, she was awarded the 'Goalkeeper of the Tournament’ in the 4 Nations Junior Women Invitational Tournament in Dublin.

This led her to represent the Senior Women's National team at the FIH Pro League 2021/22. Bichu was a key member of the team that won the first-ever FIH Women's Nations Cup in Spain in 2022.

Team India's Aim for 19th Asian Games

Set to compete in Hangzhou with an ambition to secure a spot at the Paris Olympics 2024, Bichu's excitement about her selection is palpable. “Joining the squad for the 19th Asian Games Hangzhou 2022 is thrilling. The years of effort and sacrifice have culminated in this opportunity.

The send-off ceremony in Bengaluru, attended by her family, is among her most cherished memories. "The Sunehra Safar event put together by Hockey India was highly significant, and having my family be a part of it made it even more special.

Their pride and joy when presenting my India jersey was a moment of immense happiness for me. Their support fuels my determination to give my best on the field.”

As to the team's preparation, Bichu shared, “The team's efforts under Janneke Schopman's guidance have been intense and productive. We keep each other motivated during training and this will be the first Asian Games for some of us, adding an element of excitement.”

Eager to compete against top teams at the 19th Asian Games Hangzhou 2022, Bichu stated, “Our focus is solely on securing the Gold Medal. Awareness of what's at stake keeps us from underestimating any team. Comprehensive goalkeeping sessions help us refine our skills and eradicate errors. We are determined to clinch the Gold Medal.”

The Indian Women’s Hockey Team will commence their tournament against Singapore on 27th September, at 1015hrs IST.