A major international sporting spectacle is set to unfold in Odisha as the Iconic India International Open Gateball Tournament (IIIOGT) 2025 kicks off at the Kalinga Stadium from November 30 to December 1. The event is being organised by the Iconic Sports Federation (ISF) in association with the Indian Gateball Union (IGU), marking a significant moment for the sport’s development in India.
The tournament will feature four global heavyweights — Japan, Thailand, Indonesia and Taiwan — along with teams from 18 Indian states. More than 400 players, coaches, officials and dignitaries will participate, competing in Classic and Doubles events over two days of fast-paced action.
On the occasion Tarini Prasad Mahanty has been appointed Chairman of the Organising Committee. Speaking on the occasion, the Federation said the tournament will strengthen India’s presence on the world Gateball stage and further reinforce Bhubaneswar’s reputation as a premier sports destination.
The announcement ceremony was attended by Chidatmika Khatua, Director ISF; Dipayan Pattanaik, Director, Asia Pacific Gateball Union; Umakanta Pani, President IGU; Sanjay Choudhury, Dr Sheikh Abdul Samim, and Sanjay Das, State Secretary, ISF.
What is Gateball?
Gateball is a fast-growing strategic team sport played on a 20m x 15m rectangular court with three gates and a goal pole. Two teams — Red and White — compete with up to five players each, using numbered balls (odd numbers red, even numbers white).
Teams score one point for passing a ball through a gate and two points for striking the goal pole.
A match lasts 30 minutes, and the team with the highest score wins. Known for requiring precision, tactical planning and mental sharpness, Gateball is enjoyed by players across all age groups.
How the Sport Began
Gateball was invented in Japan in 1947 by Suzuki Kazunobu, who modified the rules of croquet during a time when Japan faced a shortage of rubber for sports equipment. The sport spread rapidly from Kumamoto City in the late 1950s, driven by educational and community groups.
The Japanese Gateball Union (JGU) was established in 1984, and international expansion accelerated with the creation of the World Gateball Union (WGU) in 1985. Today, the sport is played in more than 20 countries, with major championships held across Asia and South America.
Odisha’s Rising Sports Presence
With world-class facilities and successful hosting of global events in hockey, athletics, swimming and badminton, Odisha continues to position itself as a leading hub for international sports. The IIIOGT 2025 is expected to draw large crowds, especially young athletes and sports enthusiasts.
“We invite everyone to witness this exciting strategic team sport,” organisers said. “This event will be a milestone for Gateball in India and a proud moment for Odisha.”
With international teams ready to compete and home squads determined to make an impact, Bhubaneswar is all set for two days of high-intensity sporting drama.
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