India Creates History, Wins Both Men’s and Women’s Titles at Inaugural Kho Kho World Cup

New Delhi, Jan 19 (UNI): In a momentous achievement, India claimed both the men’s and women’s titles at the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup 2025. The Indian men’s team secured a dominant 54-36 victory over Nepal in the final, while the women’s team showcased their supremacy with a resounding 78-40 win against the same opponents at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on Sunday night.

The double triumph solidified India’s legacy in the traditional sport’s global debut, with outstanding performances from both teams captivating the audience.

Men’s Final: A Display of Dominance

The Indian men’s team, led by captain Pratik Waikar, started with unmatched intensity. Star player Ramji Kashyap set the tone with a spectacular sky dive, dismissing Nepal’s Suraj Pujara early. Suyash Gargate added to the pressure with a brilliant touch on Bharat Sahu, giving India a 10-point lead within the first four minutes. By the end of Turn 1, India led 26-0.

Although Nepal rallied in Turn 2 through Janak Chand and Suraj Pujara, India maintained a steady 26-18 lead by halftime, thanks to strategic brilliance from Waikar and Aditya Ganpule.

In Turn 3, India extended their dominance as Kashyap and Waikar executed multiple sky dives, with consistent support from Aditya Ganpule. By the end of the turn, India led 54-18. Nepal’s valiant efforts in Turn 4 couldn’t penetrate India’s robust defence, led by Sachin Bhargo, Mehul, and Suman Barman. India sealed their win at 54-36.

Women’s Final: An Emphatic Victory

The Indian women’s team displayed a masterclass in skill and strategy. Captain Pooja Thakur and attacker Smita Patel spearheaded the team’s charge, overwhelming Nepal’s defence from the beginning. By halftime, India had built an unassailable 40-16 lead.

Turn 3 saw India accelerate their momentum, with multiple dives and swift touches from Smita Patel and Richa Devi. The team’s defensive line, led by Neha Sharma and Sakshi Singh, thwarted Nepal’s attempts to close the gap.

The final whistle confirmed India’s emphatic 78-40 victory, underscoring their dominance in the women’s competition.

Journey to Glory

India’s journey to the top was marked by dominance in both categories. The men’s team breezed through group stages with wins over Brazil, Peru, and Bhutan, followed by a commanding quarterfinal victory against Bangladesh and a nail-biting semifinal against South Africa.

The women’s team mirrored this success, overpowering teams like Sri Lanka and Australia before dispatching Bangladesh in the semifinals to set up a final showdown with Nepal.

Awards and Accolades

• Men’s Category:
  • Best Attacker: Suyash Gargate (India)
  • Best Defender: Rohit Burma (Nepal)
  • Best Player: Mehul (India)
• Women’s Category:
  • Best Attacker: Smita Patel (India)
  • Best Defender: Sangita Khadka (Nepal)
  • Best Player: Pooja Thakur (India)

A New Era for Kho Kho

India’s double triumph in the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup highlights the nation’s unparalleled expertise in the sport and paves the way for its growing prominence on the global stage. The victories have sparked celebrations across the country, marking a proud moment for Indian sports enthusiasts.