Indian women emerged as champions of the inaugural Kho-Kho World Cup by defeating Nepal's women 78-40. The Indian team showcased a dominant performance throughout the tournament, remaining undefeated in both the group stages and the knockout rounds.
The final challenge they faced was against their familiar rivals, Nepal. Both teams had achieved impressive wins in the semi-finals, leading to a highly anticipated showdown to determine the inaugural Kho-Kho World Cup winner.
Nepal won the toss and chose to let India attack first, a decision that ultimately backfired. This allowed the Indian team to take full advantage and quickly build up points, applying pressure on their opponents from the start. India wasted no time, eliminating Nepal's first three defenders Saraswoti, Puja, and Dipa in just 50 seconds, setting a strong tone for the first turn.
Nepali players Punam, Nisha, and Manmati were tasked withchanging the pace and shifting momentum, but the relentless Indian women continued to dominate.
Highlighted by an impressive double out by their captain, Priyanka Ingle, India finished the turn with a commanding lead of 34-0. For Nepal to stay competitive, it was crucial for them to match India's aggression with their own attack.
However, India’s trio of Chaithra, Vaishnavi, and Ingle had other plans. The opening group of defenders for India effectively trapped the visitors, forcing them to run around in circles for more than three minutes, thanks in part to Chaithra’s relentless defense, which culminated in a Dream Run.
