How Did Odisha Girls Defy the Odds to Claim Gold Over Maharashtra in Kho-Kho?
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Synopsis
In an unexpected twist at the Khelo India Youth Games 2025, Odisha's girls triumphed over Maharashtra, marking a remarkable comeback from their previous silver. Meanwhile, the boys’ team faced a tough challenge, falling short against Maharashtra. Dive into the thrilling details of this sporting event that showcases Odisha's rising talent and the potential of Bihar's sports culture!
Key Takeaways
- Odisha girls won gold by defeating Maharashtra 34-31.
- Samarnika Sahu's performance was crucial for the victory.
- Odisha boys secured silver after losing to Maharashtra 34-25.
- KIYG is enhancing the sports culture in Bihar.
- Support from the government is vital for athlete development.
Gaya (Bihar), May 9 (NationPress) - In a thrilling turn of events, the Odisha girls secured an impressive victory against reigning champions Maharashtra, triumphing 34-31 in the Kho-kho finals of the Khelo India Youth Games 2025 held at the BIPARD Sports Complex on Friday. On the boys' side, however, Maharashtra avenged their defeat by defeating Odisha 34-25, demonstrating their continued prowess.
The girls’ championship was a testament to fierce competition, highlighted by Samarnika Sahu's stellar performance, contributing 12 points to secure the win. This victory not only signifies a comeback for Odisha, who had settled for silver in 2024 in Tamil Nadu, but also a significant milestone in the sports history of Odisha.
The win was hard-fought. At one point, Odisha was behind, with a score of 10-16, yet their resilience and determination led them to a stunning comeback and ultimately, the gold medal.
Following the win, Odisha's coach Chaudhury Parthasarathi Mohapatra expressed his joy. “We lost last time. This time, we played without pressure. Our combination of junior and senior players made this victory possible,” he told SAI Media.
“This is a groundbreaking achievement for our girls. Their determination and skills were evident today. The support from the Odisha Government has been monumental, and this result underscores that,” he added. “We came with a single aim—to be champions. Our girls have turned this vision into a reality.”
Mohapatra, who coaches at the High Performance Centre (HPC) in Puri, noted that Odisha has frequently challenged Maharashtra’s dominance over the past few years. “This performance reaffirms that we are not just competitors; we are serious contenders,” he stated.
In contrast, the boys’ final saw Odisha struggle to keep pace with Maharashtra's seasoned team, finishing with a score of 34-25, thus earning a silver medal.
“We aimed for two gold medals, but I’m proud of the boys for securing silver. It’s a significant achievement nonetheless. Maharashtra is a strong team, but the steady progress of Odisha in Kho-kho is attributed to our players' hard work and government initiatives,” he remarked.
The boys' bronze medal was secured by Karnataka and Punjab, with Karnataka overcoming Punjab under the minimum chase rule. In the girls' category, Punjab and Delhi shared the bronze, with Punjab winning in a tie-breaker.
Avinash Kumar, a physical education teacher at Gyan Bharti World School, believes KIYG will significantly impact Bihar's sports landscape. “Infrastructure is improving, and more sports facilities are emerging across the state. The KIYG discussions are becoming part of our daily lives,” he commented.
Ansh Raj, a 10th-grade student, was captivated by the vibrant atmosphere. “I’ve been playing kho-kho since childhood. The opportunity to witness the finals in Gaya is exhilarating. It’s a wonderful learning experience,” he shared.
Ansh, who participated in the Bihar selection trials, mentioned that KIYG will offer a substantial boost to Bihar's sporting culture. “We are often viewed as underdeveloped compared to other states, but we possess tremendous potential. This platform allows us to showcase the talent of Bihar, and we are thankful to the Bihar Government,” he stated.
Results:
Boys (Final): Maharashtra defeated Odisha 34-25; Bronze Medals: Karnataka and Punjab.
Girls (Final): Odisha defeated Maharashtra 34-31; Bronze Medals: Punjab and Delhi.
Point of View
I recognize the significance of the Khelo India Youth Games in promoting sports across India. The remarkable performances by Odisha's teams demonstrate not only their potential but also the evolving sports culture in Bihar. This event is crucial for inspiring young athletes and enhancing the overall sporting landscape in the region. The continued support from the government and the dedication of the players will undoubtedly foster a brighter future for sports in India.
NationPress
21/05/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the girls' Kho-kho match?
Odisha girls defeated Maharashtra with a score of 34-31.
Who was the standout player for Odisha in the girls' final?
Samarnika Sahu was the standout player, scoring 12 points.
What was the outcome of the boys' Kho-kho final?
Maharashtra defeated Odisha in the boys' final with a score of 34-25.
Which teams secured the bronze medals in the boys' and girls' categories?
Karnataka and Punjab won the bronze in the boys' category, while Punjab and Delhi secured the bronze in the girls' category.
How is the Khelo India Youth Games impacting sports in Bihar?
The KIYG is improving infrastructure and encouraging a stronger sports culture in Bihar, providing a platform for young athletes to showcase their talent.
