The Kho Kho teams from Nepal have marked the nation’s sporting history by winning the runners-up titles in both the men’s and women’s categories at the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup held in New Delhi, India. The tournament came to a close on January 19, 2025, and Nepal’s athletes had the opportunity to show off their incredible skills and brave attitude in the eyes of the world in this way. Although Nepal lost to India, the host country, they have carried out an extraordinary performance, which is a great accomplishment for Nepal’s sports sector.
Nepal, which was trailing behind throughout the game on the first try, lost against India, with an ultimate score of 40-78. The game started with India setting the stage, leading 34-0 in the first turn. Nepal’s ladies fought back courageously in the second turn, and they shortened the gap 24-35 by halftime. The issue was that the defense of India was practically uncrackable in the third turn, so the score line extended to 73-24, which made it almost impossible for Nepal to gain their victory in the final turn.
In the men’s final, the same situation was witnessed, with Nepal being overpowered by India with a score of 36-54, which was a margin of 18 points. India, with a good start in the first turn, took a head start with 26-0, yet the game came to an eight-point margin by the end of the second turn. Despite the tireless work of Nepal to make up the deficit, India’s impervious defense in the last turn sealed their win and also the world championship.
Nepal’s way to the finals was defined by outstanding performances during the whole tournament, without a single miss. Both male and female teams of Nepal portrayed their wonderful talent and partnership,p leading them to win games against challenging possibilities to have their turn at the championship game. Their victory has aroused the attention of numerous people in Nepal who have hitherto turned their eyes on kho kho in Nepal, and it has only raised their potential in the traditional sports of South Asia.
The achievement of the teammates of Nepal has been the topic of conversation of the nation with many considering it as a bridge to the next level of success in international sports. The government and the sports authorities have given kudos to the athletes for their passion and determination, acknowledging their performance as the pride of the nation. Nepal is planning to capitalize on this success, primarily by demanding more investment in Kho Kho and the other sports so that younger talents can be nurtured and the highest levels of competition can be reached.
