How many countries will participate in the first Kho-Kho World Cup to be held in 2025?

Mumbai Mumbai. The Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) on Friday announced the 24 nations that will participate in the inaugural Kho Kho World Cup to be held at the IGI Stadium in New Delhi from January 13-19, 2025. This historic tournament reflects the global evolution of this indigenous Indian game, with twenty-four countries from six continents competing for the title of World Champion.

The championship will see a diversity of participating countries: from the African continent, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa and Uganda will showcase their talents; Asia will be represented by hosts India along with Bangladesh, Bhutan, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, South Korea and Sri Lanka; Europe will have participants such as England, Germany, Netherlands and Poland; North America will be represented by Canada and the United States; South America would include Brazil and Peru; While Australia and New Zealand will represent Oceania.

The tournament structure will include both men's and women's categories, with 16 teams competing in each category. This format ensures an intense competition that will showcase the speed, strategy and sporting excellence of Kho Kho.

In the men's category, the competition will have a strong African presence with Ghana, Kenya and South Africa. The Asian contingent includes hosts India, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan and South Korea. England and the Netherlands will represent Europe, while North America consists of Canada and the United States. South America will be represented by Brazil, while Australia will complete the 16-team lineup.

The women's category featured a different but equally competitive group of countries. From Africa, Kenya, South Africa and Uganda will participate. Asian representation includes hosts India, Bhutan, Iran, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, South Korea and Sri Lanka. European teams include England, Germany and Poland. South America will be represented by Peru, while New Zealand completes the women's category. Meanwhile, Pakistan have secured berths in both the men's and women's categories of this inaugural World Cup, adding to the competitive depth of the tournament.