Indian Women Dominate South Africa, Storm Into Kho Kho World Cup Final
India's Women in Blue Deliver a Commanding 66-16 Victory Over South Africa, Set to Face Nepal in Final
New Delhi - The Indian women’s Kho Kho team made a sensational statement on Saturday by securing a spot in the final of the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup 2025. In a breathtaking semifinal performance at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium, the Women in Blue triumphed with a commanding 66-16 victory over South Africa. With a flawless blend of strategy, agility, and teamwork, India now gears up for an exciting final clash against Nepal.
Strong Start and Dream Runs:
India’s journey to the final began with a stellar performance in the opening turn. Chaithra B set the tone early on, executing a brilliant Dream Run even after key players Nazia Bibi and Nirmala Bhati were caught by the South African defenders. Chaithra managed to score 5 points before being eliminated by South Africa’s Sinethemba Mosia, giving India a commanding 8-point lead at the end of Turn 1.
Reshma’s Form and Dominating Performance:
The second turn saw Reshma take control as she led India’s tactical defense and offense, catching South African players in successive batches while racking up crucial points. By the end of Turn 2, India was firmly in control with a 33-10 lead, putting them in a commanding position for the remainder of the match.
Teamwork and Precision in Turn 3:
Turn 3 was a masterclass in precision as Vaishnavi Powar, Nasreen Shaikh, and Bhilardevi combined to deliver another Dream Run. Their 5 points in the third turn expanded India’s lead to 38-16, providing the perfect foundation for the final push in the last 7 minutes of the semifinal.
Final Turn Seals Victory:
The fourth and final turn saw South Africa struggle to hold back the Indian onslaught. Despite their best efforts, the South African team’s longest batch lasted only 1 minute and 45 seconds, as India clinched victory with a final score of 66-16. Nasreen Shaikh and Reshma Rathod were instrumental in this dominant win, propelling the team into the World Cup final.
India to Face Nepal in the Final:
The stage is set for a thrilling final clash between India and Nepal, who secured their place in the final with a massive 89-18 victory over Uganda in their semifinal. The Women in Blue will face Nepal at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on Sunday, January 19, with hopes high for their first-ever Kho Kho World Cup title.
Best Attacker of the Match: Sinethemba Mosia (South Africa)
Best Defender of the Match: Nirmala Bhati (India)
Best Player of the Match: Vaishnavi Powar (India)