4th Open Khezhakeno Kikruma Badminton Tournament 2026

Our Correspondent
Kohima | September 26

The 4th Open Badminton Tournament of the Khezhakeno Kikruma Badminton Association (KKBA) took place at NLA Multi Purpose Hall, Kohima on September 26. 

In Amateur Category, Mutsivo & Mechietsho Koza emerged the champion title while Viephitsolo Koza & Chekrokhoyo Kezo stood runner-up. Vekhrolo Koza & Nühütso Vero bagged the champion title of Advanced Category while Mudothiyi Kezo & Medovelo Sono stood runner- up. In Mixed Doubles Category, Sekhotolü Puro & Mutsitso Kezo won the champion title while Senülü Puro & Vekhrolo Koza stood runner-up.

Gracing the opening ceremony as the guest speaker, Lakha Koza, IPS, Deputy Inspector General of Police (IR) South, described the tournament as “good initiative” towards building friendships and unity among the two villages of Khezhakeno Kikruma through sports. He wanted to see that the tournament grow from strength to strength and continue to usher brotherhood and healthy and peaceful society.

The tournament witnessed the participation of 60 players, showing the growing popularity of badminton among the people of Khezhakeno and Kikruma villages in Phek district.

The inaugural session was chaired by Zhalie Puro while Khupo Kezo invoked God’s blessings. Acknowledgment of the dignitaries was led by Medovelo Sono.

The prize distribution ceremony was led by Vekhrolo Koza while Bizo Puro pronounced benediction.

The shuttle was sponsored by Zhalie Puro and Potsütso Thira. Zaseyo Puro assisted the tournament as the chief umpire with Chitshovieo Koza and Er Bojivie Keviechu as recorders. Viephitsolo Koza (15) and Mutsitso Kezo (66) were the youngest and oldest competitor respectively.

The tournament, now in its 4th edition, continues to serve as a unifying platform between Khezhakeno and Kikruma, two villages bound by longstanding kinship.

Meanwhile, KKBA President  Joshua Koza thanked each and every individuals for making the tournament a grand success.