Kho Kho is a traditional Indian sport that is popular in many parts of the country. Known for its speed, agility, and strategic depth, Kho Kho has gained recognition not only in India but also internationally. To fully appreciate and play the game, it’s essential to understand its rules and regulations. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental rules and regulations governing Kho Kho.
The Basics of Kho Kho
Kho Kho is a tag sport played by two teams of twelve players each, but only nine players take the field at a time. The game is played in two innings, with each inning consisting of two halves – one for chasing and one for defending. The objective of the game is for the chasing team to tag or “capture” the defenders as quickly as possible, while the defenders try to avoid being tagged for as long as they can.
The Playing Field
The Kho Kho playing field is rectangular, measuring 29 meters in length and 16 meters in width. It is divided into two halves by a central lane, which is 23.5 meters long and 30 centimeters wide. At each end of the central lane, there are two posts that are 120 centimeters high. The field is further divided into eight cross lanes, which intersect the central lane at right angles, creating a series of squares on either side.
Teams and Players
- Teams: Each team consists of twelve players, with nine players taking the field at a time.
- Substitutions: Substitutions are allowed and can be made during breaks or in case of injury.
- Captains: Each team has a captain who leads and strategizes the game plan.
The Chasing and Defending Roles
- Chasers: The team that chases starts with eight players sitting in a row in the central lane, facing alternating directions. The ninth player, known as the active chaser, is the one who actively pursues the defenders.
- Defenders: The defending team sends three players onto the field at a time, whose goal is to avoid being tagged by the active chaser.
Rules for Chasers
- Active Chaser: Only the active chaser can tag the defenders.
- Kho: The active chaser can pass the role of chasing to a sitting teammate by touching their back and shouting “Kho.” The new active chaser then takes over the pursuit.
- Direction: Chasers must run in the direction they are facing and cannot change direction unless they give a “Kho.”
- Post Touch: The active chaser can touch a post to change direction without giving a “Kho.”
- Cross Lane: Chasers cannot cross the central lane but can run along it.
Rules for Defenders
- Avoiding Tags: Defenders must avoid being tagged by the active chaser.
- Field Limits: Defenders must stay within the field boundaries and cannot leave the playing area.
- Out: If a defender is tagged, they must leave the field, and another defender from their team takes their place.
Duration and Scoring
- Innings: A Kho Kho match consists of two innings, each lasting nine minutes. Each inning has two halves, with one team chasing in the first half and defending in the second half.
- Scoring: The chasing team scores a point for each defender they tag. The team with the most points at the end of the match wins.
Fouls and Penalties
- Line Violation: If a chaser crosses the central lane without giving a “Kho,” it is considered a foul.
- Early Kho: If a chaser gives a “Kho” before touching the back of a teammate, it results in a foul.
- Defender Violations: Defenders stepping out of bounds or engaging in unfair play can result in penalties, including points awarded to the chasing team.
Officiating
- Umpires: Kho Kho matches are overseen by two umpires who enforce the rules and ensure fair play.
- Referee: A referee is present to resolve disputes and make final decisions on contentious issues.
Conclusion
Kho Kho is a dynamic and engaging sport that requires both physical agility and strategic thinking. Understanding the rules and regulations is essential for players and fans alike to fully appreciate the nuances of the game. With its rich history and evolving popularity, Kho Kho continues to be a beloved sport that showcases the athleticism
