The Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) and the International Kho Kho Federation (IKKF) have officially announced the final squads for the upcoming Kho Kho World Cup 2025. The prestigious tournament will take place at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium in New Delhi from January 13 to 19. The first edition of this global event will feature 23 countries, with 20 men’s teams and 19 women’s teams set to compete, making it a monumental occasion for the sport.
Pratik Waikar Leads Men’s Team at Kho Kho World Cup
The men’s team will be led by Pratik Waikar, an Eklavya Award winner and a prominent figure in Indian Kho Kho. Waikar’s journey with the sport began at the age of eight, inspired by his neighbor. Though he holds degrees in Computer Science and Finance, he chose Kho Kho as his professional career. Waikar made his India debut in 2016 and has since captained Telugu Yoddhas in the Ultimate Kho Kho League, where the team finished as runners-up. He also led Maharashtra to victory in the 56th Senior National Championship, clinching a gold medal.
Priyanka Ingle to Lead Women’s Team at Kho Kho World Cup
For the women’s team, Priyanka Ingle has been selected as captain. A seasoned player with 23 National appearances over 15 years, Ingle’s career highlights include winning the Ila Award for best sub-junior player and the Rani Laxmi Bai Award at the 2022 Senior Nationals. She was also part of the gold-winning team at the 4th Asian Kho Kho Championship 2022-23. Despite her professional commitments at the Income Tax Department in Mumbai, Ingle continues to train rigorously, solidifying her position as one of India’s top Kho Kho players.
KKFI’s Historic Moment for Kho Kho
At the press conference announcing the teams, KKFI President Shri Sudhanshu Mittal highlighted the historical significance of the event. “The selection of our national teams is a monumental moment for Kho Kho as we prepare to host the first-ever World Cup. With 23 countries participating, this tournament will showcase India’s sporting heritage on the global stage,” he said. Mittal expressed confidence in both the men’s and women’s teams under the leadership of Waikar and Ingle. He also emphasized Kho Kho’s potential to evolve from a traditional Indian sport to a globally recognized competitive event.
Team India Men’s Squad
Pratik Waikar (Captain), Prabani Sabar, Mehul, Sachin Bhargo, Suyash Gargate, Ramji Kashyap, Siva Pothir Reddy, Aditya Ganpule, Gowtham M.K., Nikhil B, Akash Kumar, Subramani V., Suman Barman, Aniket Pote, S. Rokeson Singh
Standby: Akshay Bangare, Rajvardhan Shankar Patil, Vishwanath Janakiram.
Team India Women’s Squad
Priyanka Ingle (Captain), Ashwini Shinde, Reshma Rathore, Bhilar Devjibhai, Nirmala Bhati, Neeta Devi, Chaithra R., Subhashree Sing, Magai Majhi, Anshu Kumari, Vaishnavi Bajrang, Nasreen Shaikh, Meenu, Monika, Nazia Bibi
Standby: Sampada More, Ritika Siloriya, Priyanka Bhopi.
