Mon Jan 20 05:27:27 UTC 2025: ## India Sweeps Kho Kho World Cup, Winning Both Men’s and Women’s Titles
**New Delhi** – India dominated the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup 2025, securing both the men’s and women’s championships in a resounding victory over Nepal at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on Sunday. The Indian women’s team triumphed 78-40, showcasing impressive teamwork and synchronized running, while the men’s team secured a 54-36 win.
The women’s final saw India establish an early lead, with captain Priyanka Ingle leading the charge. Nepal struggled against India’s relentless attacks, failing to achieve a single Dream Run. Although Nepal staged a brief comeback in the second turn, India maintained control, extending their lead significantly in the third and fourth turns. Chaithra B’s Dream Run in the final turn solidified India’s victory. Following the win, 2023 Arjuna awardee and former captain Nasreen Shaikh announced her retirement.
The men’s final followed a similar pattern. Ramji Kashyap and Suyash Gargate’s impressive performance in the first turn gave India a commanding lead, which they maintained despite Nepal’s efforts to close the gap. Pratik Waikar’s sky dives and strong defensive play in the later turns secured India’s victory.
Both Indian teams had previously defeated Nepal in the Asian Kho Kho Championships last year, giving them a strategic advantage. Coaches Sumit Bhatia (women’s team) and Ashwini Kumar (men’s team) praised their teams’ performance and strategic planning. Coach Kumar also indicated that England is a likely host for the next World Cup in 2027. Captain Waikar expressed confidence in the continued growth of Kho Kho as a sport following this historic win.
First Piper 