The Kho Kho World Cup began in India on Monday sans Pakistan as the host country denied visas to the nuclear-armed neighbour.

The tournament’s opening match was originally set to be an exciting clash between archrivals India and Pakistan, Indian media reported.

“When we made the schedule, we had hoped for it to go as planned. But this is not really in our control; the Ministry of External Affairs has not approved their [Pakistan’s] application, so it seems like they are unlikely to play,” Kho Kho World Cup COO Geeta Sudan said.

Despite Pakistan being approved as the sole host of the tournament in 2021, Indian authorities refused to travel there due to “terror” concerns.

The frosty relations between the countries have marred the sports events. India refused to play Champion’s Trophy 2025 in Pakistan as the Indian Cricket Board has confirmed on December 19. India will play their matches in the United Arab Emirates next year as a neutral venue for their rivals, the Pakistan Cricket Board said.

The event would continue till January 19, featuring players from 23 countries, with 20 teams in the men’s category and 19 in the women’s.

Kho Kho Federation of India President Sudhanshu Mittal highlighted the preparations and the selection process that led to the formation of the Indian teams, expressing excitement and optimism for the game.

The event would continue till January 19, featuring players from 23 countries, with 20 teams in the men’s category and 19 in the women’s.

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The Men and Women’s Kho Kho team will be divided into four groups with five countries in each.