The inaugural Kho Kho World Cup, taking place from January 13 to January 19, 2025, will bring international attention to the sport. Hosted at New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi Arena, the tournament will feature 24 teams from six continents. Supported by the Odisha government, the event promises an exciting mix of cultural heritage and fast-paced action. Fans will also be introduced to the official mascots, Tejas and Tara, adding a touch of charm to the competition as Kho Kho takes its place on the global stage.
what exactly is Kho Kho?
The group game is a traditional Indian sport that blends speed, strategy, and teamwork. Played between two teams of 12 players each, with 7 active players on the field at a time, the game alternates between attacking and defending roles.
How is Kho Kho Played?
Field: The game is played on a rectangular field, divided into two halves with a central lane running through the middle.
Match: The match consists of two innings, each lasting 9 minutes, during which one team chases while the other defends. The chasing team aims to tag the defending team’s players, following specific movement rules.
Chasing: Players from the chasing team take turns running to tag opponents, while the others sit in a row. They switch direction based on instructions given during the game.
Defending: The defending team works to avoid being tagged until the allotted time expires.
Tournament format
The Kho Kho World Cup will follow a round-robin format, leading into knockout stages. Teams will battle through the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and ultimately the final, all vying for the prestigious title.
Each team will consist of 15 players, along with a coach and manager. The matches will be conducted according to the regulations set by the International Kho Kho Federation (IKKF), ensuring fair play and a highly competitive atmosphere.
Men’s Teams
The men’s tournament will feature a diverse array of teams from across the globe, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Indonesia, South Korea, Malaysia, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, England, the Netherlands, Canada, the United States, Brazil, and Australia.
Women’s Teams
The women’s division will showcase an equally impressive selection of teams, with participants from India, Pakistan, Bhutan, Iran, Nepal, Indonesia, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, Poland, England, Germany, Peru, and New Zealand.