Bhubaneswar: In a bid to enhance viewer excitement, a revamped points system takes center stage as the reigning champions, Odisha Juggernauts, clash with Rajasthan Warriors to kick off Season 2 of India’s premier Kho-Kho carnival at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Cuttack this Sunday.
Initiated by Amit Burman in collaboration with the Kho Kho Federation of India, Ultimate Kho Kho captured widespread interest from enthusiasts and corporate entities during its debut edition. The sport’s innovative approach, coupled with the ambitious goal of revitalizing and globalizing it, propelled Ultimate Kho Kho to become India’s third-largest non-cricket league. Notably, it secured Series A funding, a pioneering achievement for an Indian sports league, thanks to the UK-based BNP Group.
The upcoming second edition promises an even more thrilling spectacle with a uniform points system, awarding two points for all attacking moves by the teams. Featuring six teams owned by prominent Indian corporate entities and sports investors, the season, scheduled from December 24, 2023, to January 13, 2024, is set to witness spirited competition for the coveted title.
Tenzing Niyogi, CEO and Commissioner of the Ultimate Kho Kho League, reflected on the success of the inaugural edition and outlined plans for expansion in 2025. With the support of fans globally, Season 2 is expected to surpass the achievements of its predecessor.
The league features teams such as Chennai Quick Guns, Gujarat Giants, Mumbai Khiladis, and last edition’s runners-up Telugu Yoddhas, adding to the competitive mix.
A total of 145 athletes, including 33 promising youths, will engage in spirited competition over 21 days. Live broadcasts on Sony Sports Network’s channels and streaming on the Sony Liv app will bring the matches to fans worldwide.
With the inaugural edition amassing 164 million viewers, Season 2 is poised to captivate audiences with 30 matches during the league phase over an 18-day period. The top four teams will progress to the semi-finals, and the ultimate champions will be crowned on January 13.