Ace pistol shooter Manu Bhaker is set to lead the 35-Member Indian team at the upcoming ISSF World Cups in South America, kicking off the international shooting season. The team has a stellar line ups, including several Olympians from the Paris Games.
The first leg of the season is scheduled in Buenos Aires, Argentina from 1st April-11th April, featuring a combined line of Rifle, Pistol and Shotgun World Cup. This will be followed by another combined World Cup at Lima Peru, from 13th April-22nd, presenting a challenging double header for Indian shooters.
Manu Bhaker, was recently honored with the prestigious Khel Ratna award for securing two bronze medal at the Paris Olympics in the 10m women’s air pistol and 10m air pistol mixed team events, will compete in both the women’s air pistol and 25m pistol individual events. Her participation and work is highly anticipated as she aims to build more after her Olympic Games.
A significant highlight is the return of air pistol specialist Saurabh Chaudhary to the national squad after three years of hiatus. Post the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, Saurabh faced challenges with shoulder injury. However, he has shown a remarkable comeback, setting a national record in the 10m air pistol qualification and delivering strong performances in recent selection trials. Notably, he has previously partnered with Manu Bhaker in the 10m air pistol mixed team event during Tokyo Games.
The squad also includes other Paris Olympians, Anish Bhanwala, Vijayveer Sidhu, Esha Singh, Aishwarya Pratap Singh Tomar, Sift Kaur Samra, Shriyanka Sadangi, Arjun Babuta, Pritiviraj Tondaiman, Anant Jeet Singh Naruka, and Raiza Dhillon.
In preparation for South America events, the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has organized a training camp at New Delhi on 14th March. The camp aims to provide the shooters an opportunity to work on their skills and strategy for the international competition.
The ISSF calendar of the year holds a significant importance with events such as World Championships scheduled for October (shotgun) and November (rifle/pistol). Two junior World Cups including one in New Delhi in September and 16th Championship in Kazakhstan in August.
With a strong mix of Olympians and emerging talent, the Indian shooting team is expected to deliver a competitive performance at ISSF World Cups. These events will serve a crucial platform for them to prepare for their upcoming international stage.
Sources: TOI , The Economic Times
