India opens Kho Kho World Cup 2025 campaign with thrilling 42-37 victory over Nepal

India started their Kho Kho World Cup 2025 campaign with a thrilling victory over Nepal 42-37 in their Group A encounter in New Delhi last night. The match proved to be an exciting contest, setting the tone for the tournament. From the Indian Men’s team Aditya Ganpule fetched the best player of the match title and Siva Reddy was the best attacker of the match. Rohit Kumar from the Nepal squad won the best defender of the match.

Winning the toss, the Indian Men’s team led by Prateek Waikar got off to a strong start, scoring 24 points in their first turn. However, Nepal gradually gained momentum, delivering a spirited performance and keeping the game closely contested. In the third turn, India managed 18 points while attacking, but Nepal’s remarkable efforts in the final turn nearly turned the tables. Subramani V emerged as the hero for India, consuming more than 40 crucial seconds in a tense moment that ultimately secured the win for the hosts.

Speaking at a press conference, Prateek Waikar expressed his excitement and stated that it is a next-level feeling to lead the team in



such a big event.

Before the Match, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, alongside Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha and Kho Kho Federation of India President Sudhanshu Mittal, lit the ceremonial torch of Kho Kho World Cup 2025, symbolizing the spirit of sportsmanship, unity, and the global celebration of India’s traditional sport. The historic event marked the global debut of the traditional Indian sport, with teams from 20 countries participating. The Kho-Kho Federation of India has selected 15-member squads for both the Men’s and Women’s categories. Prateek Waikar has been named captain of the men’s team, while Priyanka Ingle will lead the women’s team.

The Indian men’s team has been placed in Group A, along with teams from Nepal, Bhutan, Peru, and Brazil. On the women’s side, India is also in Group A, joined by Malaysia, Iran, and Korea. All teams will compete in group-stage matches, after which the quarterfinals will be held on January 17, the semifinals on January 18, and the finals on January 19.