At the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup 2025, held Wednesday at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi, the Indian men’s Kho Kho team defeated Peru 70-38 to guarantee their place in the quarterfinals. Earlier on Wednesday, the Indian women’s team defeated Iran by 84 points, winning 100-16. Continuing their winning streak. The hosts continued their stellar tournament run with a commanding performance.
The win highlighted their superior athleticism and tactical skill, solidifying their championship prospects. Although Peru showed tenacity with a brief defensive stand in Turn 2, Team India’s strong start set the tone as they dominated the first few phases of Turn 1. But because of the outstanding leadership of Wazir Pratik Waikar, the hosts swiftly regained control and finished the opening round with a commanding 36 points.
Through Turn 2, the momentum kept increasing thanks to superb performances by Sachin Bhargo, Siva Reddy, and Aditya Pote. Turn 3 saw India maintain its lead, and by Turn 4, the score had risen to 70 points. India’s decisive 32-point win not only guaranteed them a spot in the quarterfinals but also made it apparent that they were serious about winning the championship.
India’s Kho Kho Teams Shine
The stage for another victory for the women’s team was laid earlier in the day when Team India ousted the first group of Iranian ladies in 33 seconds. This time, Ashwini gained control of the match. But Team Iran recovered admirably, staying on the mat for a solid two minutes. Before returning to their dugout thanks to the Indian attackers’ skillful play. The Iranian women’s attack began with skydiving.
Captain Priyanka Ingle and Nirmala Bhati led the team to the Dream Run, where they earned two points. Iran survived for nearly two minutes in Turn 3 with the longest batch. But it was a small setback for the Indian attackers, who were led this time by Wazir Nirmala. As the team swiftly eliminated three waves of Iranians in three minutes, Nasreen jumped in as well, adding a simple touch to her total.
