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10 di

India`s women`s team dominated the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup, defeating Nepal and showcasing the sport`s global potential.

The inaugural Kho Kho World Cup in New Delhi showcased the ancient Indian sport on a global stage, featuring teams from 23 nations. The tournament culminated in a thrilling final where India`s women`s team decisively defeated Nepal with a score of 78-40, underscoring their dominance and the sport`s rising international profile.

Throughout the competition, India faced off against formidable opponents, including South Korea, with the men`s team securing a narrow victory of 42-37. The women`s matches were particularly lopsided, with India achieving an astonishing score of 175-18 against their rivals. This event not only highlighted the skill of players like Nasreen Shaikh but also emphasized the strategic growth of kho kho as it aims for Olympic inclusion, especially as India prepares to bid for the 2036 Games.

The Kho Kho Federation of India reported a significant surge in the sport`s popularity, now ranking as the third most-watched non-cricket sports tournament in the country. The transition from outdoor fields to indoor mats has played a crucial role in this growth. Key players and team captains expressed optimism about the future of kho kho, viewing the World Cup as a pivotal step towards achieving Olympic status.

Despite the notable absence of Pakistan due to political tensions, the event attracted global participation, including teams from the United States, England, and Australia. The atmosphere was festive, with strong attendance reflecting the sport`s potential for further expansion and recognition on the world stage.

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