Kho kho is a traditional Indian game that played between 2 teams where one team is called chasers and other called runners. The chasers try to tag the runners, while the runners dodge and sprint to avoid being caught. This game is quite interesting and played in a time span of 30 minutes where the result is finalized and winner team is awarded!
Rule for Chasers to Run in Only in One Direction
The one rule of this game which is related to chasers who sit on the ground, the active chaser can only follow 1 direction. Means when an active chaser gives a kho to another chaser seated on the central line… that chaser only can go in 1 direction. This direction can be left or right, if the chaser chooses to run in left, then he/she can’t change direction while chasing the runner. If the chaser mistakenly changes direction mid-chase, it is considered a foul or results in the chaser being declared out, based on the league’s specific rules. However, a chaser can legally change direction using the pole situated at the ends of the field.
Role of Wazir – Wazir as Chaser
So as the rule is clear that the chaser can’t change direction in the middle but in new type of professional leagues like Ultimate Kho Kho, seven-a-side format, the role of Wazir is introduced. As per the rules of new Kho Kho leagues, there would be a Wazir in game who can run in any direction and chase a runner.
The Wazir has no such limitation to run only in one direction. Unlike regular chasers, the Wazir as a chaser in Kho Kho can run in any direction and change direction while chasing a runner. This player in chasers is a powerful player who can run anywhere within their attacking half of the court and tag a runner quickly.Ā This flexibility makes the Wazir a game-changer, providing a tactical edge to the team and this changes the match results in seconds.
Like other regular chasers, Wazir can’t cross the central line, means if Wazir would like to go in the second half of the Kho Kho court, then he can go in the other half by crossing the post line or with help of pole.
Role and Rules of the Wazir in Kho Kho
- Each team of 7 players is allowed to include one Wazir, however there can be 2 Wazirs in Kho Kho if you use powerplay.
- The Wazir’s uniform is distinct, enabling easy identification.
- The decision to include a Wazir in the gameplay lies with the team captain or management. However, this must be pre-approved and communicated to the referee.
- The Wazir’s inclusion adds unpredictability, making the game more challenging and exciting for both players and fans.
Final Words
The addition of Wazir in Kho Kho game, makes the game more interesting and thrilling. In professional leagues, Wazir is used as an attacking player who can change the match results in seconds. Wazir is capable to tag the runners quickly as he can run in any direction without using pole within their attacking half of the court.
Based on the league, 2 Wazirs can also be used as same time. In powerplay, there can be two Wazirs on the court simultaneously. This significantly increases the pressure on the defending team and this makes the game more dynamic and exciting. You can know more about the Wazir in this video, shared by Ultimate Kho Kho!
Did we miss anything to highlight regarding the Kho Kho Wazir? Please let us know in the comments below and share it with others on social sports groups.
