India Triumphs in First Kho Kho World Cup 2025

India Clinches Historic Double at Kho Kho World Cup 2025

India made history by securing 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. The event, which featured 23 countries across six continents, saw 20 men’s teams and 19 women’s teams compete in the fast-paced seven-a-side format.

Men’s Final: India vs. Nepal

In the men’s final, India triumphed with a dominant 54-36 victory over Nepal. Captain Pratik Waikar and standout player Ramji Kashyap were key to the win, with Waikar’s leadership and Kashyap’s spectacular skydives keeping Nepal on the back foot. India’s early dominance was clear, with a 26-point lead in Turn 1. Despite Nepal’s attempts to rally in Turn 4, India’s defense, led by Waikar and Sachin Bhargo, stood firm.

Women’s Final: India vs. Nepal

The Indian women’s team followed suit, defeating Nepal 78-40 in the final. Captain Priyanka Ingle played a crucial role with multiple touchpoints, setting a strong foundation in Turn 1. A remarkable Dream Run by B. Chaithra in Turn 4, lasting over five minutes, secured the win. India’s path to the title included notable victories over South Korea, Iran, and Malaysia in the group stages, followed by dominant wins against Bangladesh in the quarterfinals and South Africa in the semifinals.

Historical Significance

This dual victory highlights India’s supremacy in Kho Kho, with both teams etching their names in history as the first-ever champions of the Kho Kho World Cup. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the teams, emphasizing the historic nature of the wins and their potential to inspire future generations.

The success of the 2025 Kho Kho World Cup marks a pivotal moment for the sport, bringing international recognition to one of India’s oldest traditional games. This victory is expected to inspire a new wave of young athletes across the country, fueling the growth and popularity of Kho Kho in the years to come.

In Conclusion

India’s historic double victory at the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup 2025 cements its dominance in the sport while bringing global recognition to this traditional game. With stellar performances from both teams, this triumph is expected to inspire future generations and boost Kho Kho’s popularity on the international stage.