Kho Kho, a traditional Indian sport with origins that date back thousands of years, is a game of speed, strategy, and teamwork.
Often likened to the playground game of tag, Kho Kho has evolved into a competitive sport with organised rules, a defined format, and a unique charm that sets it apart from other games.
Here’s an in-depth look at how Kho Kho is played, its scoring system, and the field it’s played on.
Understanding the basics of Kho Kho
Kho Kho is played between two teams, each consisting of 12 players, though only 9 are active on the field at a time.
The primary goal for the chasing team is to tag the defenders, earning points in the process. Defenders, meanwhile, aim to evade being tagged for as long as possible.
A game of Kho Kho is not just about running or tagging – it’s a sport that combines speed with intelligence and strategy.
Every player’s movement and decisions are dictated by strict rules, making the game both challenging and thrilling.
Rules of Kho Kho
The game starts with a coin toss, where the winning team decides whether to begin as the chasers or defenders. The chasing team positions eight players crouched in designated rectangles on the field, while the ninth player, called the active chaser, begins the chase from a free zone.
Chasers must follow a specific direction during their pursuit and cannot cross the central lane unless they touch one of the poles at either end of the field. If a chaser wants to pass the chase to a teammate, they can tag them while uttering the word “Kho.” This teammate then becomes the new active chaser, while the previous one takes a sitting position.
Defenders enter the field in batches of three, with the objective of avoiding being tagged. If a defender is touched, they are out, and the chasing team scores a point. Once all three defenders are eliminated, the next batch takes their place on the field.
Violations, such as crossing the central lane illegally or improper tagging, result in penalties. Cards – yellow for a warning and red for suspension – are issued for severe or repeated infractions.
Scoring and match format
A Kho Kho match consists of two innings, each with two turns of nine minutes. During these turns, teams alternate between chasing and defending. Points are awarded for every defender tagged, and the team with the highest points at the end of the innings wins.
In case of a tie, additional innings are played, or a tiebreaker determines the winner. Teams can also use strategic declarations to end their turn early if they have a significant lead, a tactic reminiscent of cricket.
Another unique aspect of Kho Kho is the “follow-on” rule. If the chasing team leads by six or more points after the first innings, they can enforce a follow-on, compelling the opposing team to begin the second innings as the chasing team. This strategy can shift the momentum of the match and adds an extra layer of tactical depth to the game.
Field dimensions
Kho Kho is played on a rectangular field measuring 27 meters in length and 16 meters in width. The field is divided into zones and lanes, each serving a specific purpose during the game.
At either end of the field, free zones are marked, measuring 1.5 meters wide. These zones provide space for the active chaser to change direction by touching one of the vertical poles, which stand 1.2 to 1.25 meters high.
Running through the centre of the field is the central lane, a 30-centimeter-wide strip connecting the two poles. Perpendicular to the central lane are eight cross lanes, each 35 centimeters wide, dividing the field into smaller sections. The precise layout of the field ensures that the game demands not only speed but also positional awareness and strategy.
Strategies and gameplay dynamics
Kho Kho is a game of intense strategy where both chasers and defenders play pivotal roles. The chasing team often uses the “Kho” system to hand off the chase efficiently, ensuring that the active chaser is always in the best position to tag a defender.
Timing and communication are critical, as a single missed opportunity can give defenders an advantage.
Defenders, on the other hand, rely on agility and quick thinking to outwit the chasers. Teams typically send their most skilled defenders in the early batches to consume maximum time, forcing the opposition to take risks in pursuit of points.
Captains play an important role in deciding the flow of the game, including when to declare their turn or enforce a follow-on. Such decisions can significantly impact the outcome of the match.
A legacy revived
Kho Kho has come a long way from its traditional roots, evolving into a globally recognized sport. With formalized rules introduced in 1914 and its first All India Championship in 1959, the game has established itself as a staple of India’s sporting culture.
Today, Kho Kho is played in over 25 countries and continues to grow in popularity with tournaments and leagues bringing it to a wider audience.
This sport, rooted in tradition but rich in modern appeal, captures the spirit of teamwork, endurance, and strategy. Whether played on school grounds or on the international stage, Kho Kho remains a testament to India’s rich sporting heritage.
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