New Delhi, Jan 19 (UNI) In a masterclass of speed, strategy, and skill, India women's kho kho team scripted history by clinching the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup 2025 title at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on a magical Sunday night.
The Women in Blue dominated Nepal in a spectacular final, sealing their victory with an emphatic score of 78-40.
A brisk start epitomised Turn 1 as the India attackers took charge of proceedings. Three batches in, the Nepal women were out by simple touches on 7 occasions, with 14 points to India's name. Skipper Priyanka Ingle was in the best of form for her team, collecting multiple touch points, as the Indians made a commanding start. This strong performance took India to 34 points, preventing any Dream Run from the Nepal team.
Manmati Dhami eliminated Vaishnavi Pawar, and B Samjhana took out Priyanka Ingle, but B Chaithra led India’s first Dream Run of Turn 2. However, Nepal quickly regained their footing as BK Dipa completed an ALL OUT, narrowing the gap. By halftime, Nepal had reduced the deficit to 11 points, with India at 34 and Nepal at 23.
Turn 3 saw India back in full control, never allowing the Nepal defenders to settle. BK Dipa proved to be a regular presence for Nepal but was unable to stop the Indian onslaught, ensuring that the Women in Blue edged closer to the coveted title.
B Chaithra orchestrated India’s Dream Run in Turn 4, taking the score to a massive 78 points. Their batch lasted a remarkable 5 minutes and 14 seconds, effectively closing out the game and securing India’s place as the first-ever champions of the Kho Kho World Cup 2025.
India’s path to glory included commanding victories over South Korea, IR Iran, and Malaysia in the group stages, followed by triumphs against Bangladesh in the quarter-finals and South Africa in the semi-finals. This historic achievement not only crowns India as the inaugural world champions but also marks a watershed moment for this indigenous sport on the global stage.
Match Awards:
Best Attacker of the Match: Anshu Kumari (Team India); Best Defender of the Match: Manmati Dhami (Team Nepal); Best Player of the Match: B Chaithra (Team India)
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