India Dominates Inaugural Kho Kho World Cup 2025
India has made history by clinching both the men’s and women’s titles at the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup 2025, held from January 13 to 19 at the Indira Gandhi Arena in New Delhi. This landmark event featured 23 countries across six continents, with 20 men’s and 19 women’s teams competing in the fast-paced seven-a-side format.
In the men’s final, India secured a commanding 54-36 victory over Nepal. Captain Pratik Waikar and standout player Ramji Kashyap were instrumental in the win, with Waikar’s exceptional skills and Kashyap’s spectacular skydives keeping Nepal on the defensive. India’s dominance was evident from the outset, with a 26-point lead in Turn 1. Despite Nepal’s efforts to stage a comeback in Turn 4, India’s defense, led by Waikar and Sachin Bhargo, remained impenetrable.
The Indian women’s team mirrored their male counterparts’ success by defeating Nepal 78-40 in the final. Captain Priyanka Ingle led with multiple touch points, establishing a strong foundation in Turn 1. A stellar Dream Run by B Chaithra in Turn 4, lasting over five minutes, sealed the victory. The women’s team’s journey to the title included impressive wins over South Korea, Iran, and Malaysia in the group stages, followed by commanding victories against Bangladesh in the quarterfinals and South Africa in the semifinals.
This double triumph underscores India’s dominance in the sport, with both teams cementing their legacy as inaugural Kho Kho World Cup champions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the teams, highlighting the historic nature of the victories and their potential to inspire future generations.
The success of the Kho Kho World Cup 2025 marks a significant milestone in the sport’s history, bringing international attention to one of India’s oldest traditional games. The event’s success is expected to inspire countless young athletes across the nation to pursue Kho Kho, contributing to its growth and popularity in the years to come.
| Why in News | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Kho Kho World Cup 2025 | India emerged as inaugural champions in both men’s and women’s events, defeating Nepal in both finals. |
| Location of the Event | The Kho Kho World Cup 2025 was held in New Delhi, India, from January 13-19, 2025. |
| Men’s Final | India defeated Nepal 54-36. Key player: Captain Pratik Waikar. |
| Women’s Final | India defeated Nepal 78-40. Key player: Captain Priyanka Ingle. |
| Teams Participated | 23 countries, with 20 men’s and 19 women’s teams participating. |
| Notable Performers | Men’s: Ramji Kashyap, Women’s: B Chaithra. |
| Significant Leadership | PM Narendra Modi congratulated the teams for their historic victories. |
| Country of Opponents | Nepal (both men’s and women’s finals). |
| Historical Achievement | First-ever Kho Kho World Cup, marking the growth and global recognition of Kho Kho. |
| India’s Performance | Dominated the tournament, with both men’s and women’s teams securing top positions. |
| Format of the Game | Fast-paced seven-a-side format. |
| Event Dates | January 13-19, 2025, Indira Gandhi Arena, New Delhi. |
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