Aaban Shaikh’s rise: Talent, timing and a helping hand from Carvalho

Aaban Shaikh, a regular at national-level tournaments, is building a strong reputation.

PANAJI
Behind the rise of Goa’s promising goalkeeper Aaban Shaikh lies a story of perseverance, opportunity, and timely support from one of Indian hockey’s most respected figures, Joaquim Carvalho.
Shaikh’s journey to the Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) hockey team began in April 2025, when the corporation invited applications for its sports scholarship programme. Based on his consistent performances at the national level — including participation in the National Games and three Senior National Championships — the young goalkeeper was shortlisted and eventually awarded a one-year scholarship.
“The scholarship includes a monthly stipend, travel and accommodation for tournaments, exposure, and financial support for sports kits and equipment,” said Shaikh, who completed his Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Agnel Institute of Technology and Design last year.
However, for a goalkeeper, the cost of specialised equipment proved to be a major hurdle. High-quality OBO goalkeeping gear costs approximately Rs 2.25 lakh, while BPCL’s support covered Rs 1 lakh. Determined to bridge the gap, Shaikh reached out to Carvalho — an Olympian, Arjuna awardee, former India captain, coach, and selector.
Carvalho stepped in to support the budding talent, arranging the remaining amount required for the kit, thereby ensuring Shaikh could compete at the highest level without compromise.
“Joaquim Sir has seen me play at the Willingdon Catholic Gymkhana during a rink hockey tournament, and also in Goa, where he, along with Olympian Merwyn Fernandes, was present. Knowing my game, he has been truly motivating me to do better,” Shaikh shared.
Shaikh’s hockey journey began in Class 6 in North Goa, and by the age of 14, he was already representing the state at the Sub-Junior Nationals. His steady rise through the ranks has now placed him among the most promising goalkeepers in the country.
Carvalho, who has been instrumental in promoting grassroots hockey in Goa, spoke highly of the youngster’s potential. “Aaban Shaikh is a good goalkeeper with all the attributes of making it to the top. With more exposure in domestic tournaments, he can certainly improve and come into the limelight. He is among the top goalkeepers in India,” said the Mumbai-based Olympian, who has strong roots in Assolna village.
Drawing comparisons with past talent, Carvalho added, “After Dominic Lobo from Goa, who represented India at the junior level, Aaban Shaikh has all the makings to represent the country.”
With the right guidance, exposure, and support, Shaikh’s journey from local grounds in Goa to national prominence reflects the growing strength of hockey in the State — and signals a bright future ahead for the young goalkeeper.
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Aaban part of BPCL’s back-to-back titles
PANAJI: Rising hockey talent Aaban Shaikh has scripted a proud moment for Goa after playing a key role in Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL)’s title-winning campaign at the 41st PSPB Inter-Unit Hockey Tournament 2026 held at the Major Dhyan Chand Hockey Stadium recently.

Goan goalkeeper Aaban Shaikh (bottom left) with the BPCL title-winning squad. 

Shaikh, a goalkeeper, impressed selectors with his performances and earned a place in the star-studded BPCL squad, becoming one of the few players from Goa to feature at this prestigious level of institutional hockey. His inclusion is being seen as a breakthrough moment, opening doors for more Goan players to compete on bigger national platforms.
BPCL clinched the title with a convincing 3–1 victory over Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) in the final, successfully defending their crown and securing back-to-back championships. Shaikh shared responsibilities between the posts alongside international goalkeeper Vikas Dahiya, while the team also featured prominent names such as Varun Kumar and Harjeet Singh.
The final witnessed an intense battle, with both sides locked goalless at halftime. BPCL broke the deadlock in the 44th minute through Manmeet Singh from a penalty corner. IOCL responded swiftly as Affan Yosuf equalised in the 47th minute. However, BPCL regained control with skipper Devindra Walmiki scoring in the 49th minute, before Sudeep Chirmako sealed the victory with a decisive strike in the 57th minute.
The tournament brought together top teams from India’s petroleum sector, including Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and Engineers India Limited (EIL), and is widely regarded for showcasing elite-level hockey talent, including Olympians and internationals.
In the third-place playoff, ONGC defeated EIL 2–0, with Bikash Toppo netting both goals.
BPCL’s continued dominance in the competition underlines their strength and consistency, while Aaban Shaikh’s achievement marks a significant milestone for Goa’s sporting community and signals a promising future for the state’s hockey talent on the national stage.