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Continuing their unbeaten streak, the Indian women's team notched a commanding victory over Malaysia to enter the quarterfinals of the Kho Kho World Cup in New Delhi on Thursday.
Starting with a spectacular 'Dream Run' by defenders Bhilar Opinaben and Monika, India showcased their prowess across all four turns, ultimately securing an emphatic 80-point win.
The victory, marked by multiple 'Dream Runs' and tactical brilliance, cemented India's position atop Group A with a massive score difference, setting up a quarterfinal clash with Bangladesh.
The home team started the game with a 'Dream Run' in their opening batch, setting the tone for an exciting win.
This impressive run by defenders Bhilar Opinaben and Monika continued throughout Turn 1, which meant both teams were on equal footing, with the first batch ending after 5 minutes and 50 seconds.
Priyanka, Neetu and Meenu then carried on the team's impressive run at the end of Turn 1, as the score read 6-6 at the end of the first 7 minutes.
Twenty-seven seconds into Turn 2, the first batch of Malaysian players had been eliminated, giving India a solid platform to build a substantial lead.
Monika and the Wazir, Nirmala Bhati, powered the team throughout their attack, while for Malaysia, Eng Zi Yi and Lakshita Vijayan kept them afloat.
The Malaysian side came close to a 'Dream Run' but fell short by 1 minute and 4 seconds at the end of Turn 2, with the scoreline 44-6 in favour of India.
The first Dream Run of Turn 3 for India was led by Subhashree Sing, as their third batch of the game continued for 4 minutes and 42 seconds. This was enough to give the home team another massive lead heading into the final Turn of the game with the score at 48-20.
Turn 4 was as dominating for India as the rest of the game. Once again, the Indian team ruled the roost and made it three wins in three games, beating their opponents by 80 points.
India beat Bhutan to secure quarterfinal spot in Kho Kho World Cup
Indian men's team continued its unbeaten streak, defeating Bhutan 71-34 to enter the quarterfinals.
The win also guaranteed India's position at the top of Group A.
The hosts set the tone early in the first turn, displaying exceptional attacking prowess to accumulate 32 points.
In the second turn, India showcased their defensive expertise, effectively containing Bhutan's attacks.
Despite displaying speed, Bhutan managed only 18 points across three batches, thanks to India's strategic play and clever opposition management.
The third turn saw India return to attack mode. Nikhil emerged as a standout performer, helping the team secure 36 points.
The Indians demonstrated excellent coordination, combining running touches and sky dives effectively.
Bhutan struggled in their final attacking turn, managing just nine points in more than half the allocated time.
India's overall performance included an impressive tally of 18 sky dives, two post-dive points, and eight running touch points across their attacking turns.