The Indian shooting team is set to compete at the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, showcasing a dynamic mix of seasoned athletes and emerging talents. A total of thirty shooters will participate across various events including Rifle, Pistol, and Shotgun. This blend of skill sets positions India well for potential medal success.

Scheduled from September 19 to October 1, the Games will see shooters engage in individual, team, and mixed-team formats. The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) confirmed the announcement in a recent press release, highlighting the readiness and preparation of the athletes.

Significant figures in the squad have previous experience in Asian Games and international competitions, signalling a robust approach towards achieving podium finishes. The combination of established players and fresh faces is expected to strengthen India’s competitive edge during the tournament.

Key Highlights from the Rifle Segment

The Rifle squad features prominent shooters who have excelled at international levels. Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, currently ranked World No. 7, is set to compete in the 50m Rifle 3 Positions event. He has previously secured silver at the Hangzhou Asian Games in 2023 and holds a distinguished record as a World Cup gold medallist and Asian champion.

Joining Aishwary in the same event will be Niraj Kumar, while in the women’s category, Ashi Chouksey, Tilottama Sen, and Vidarsa K Vinod will represent India. Notable among the squad is Rudrankksh B Patil, the 2022 World Champion, who will participate in both the 10m Air Rifle and 50m Rifle 3 Positions events.

The female rifle team also boasts talent including Elavenil Valarivan, who is a former World Cup gold medallist and Asian champion. Other competitors include Parth Rajesh Mane and Himanshu Dhillon, among others, further solidifying India’s chance for success in this category.

Pistol Events with Prominent Competitors

The Pistol contingent comprises some of India’s leading marksmen. Manu Bhaker, a double Olympic bronze medallist who is currently ranked 12th in the world, will compete in the 10m Air Pistol and 25m Pistol events. She brings significant experience and skill, enhancing India’s prospects in the competition.

Esha Singh, who holds the titles of both 2023 World Champion and Asian champion, adds further weight to the team’s capabilities in the same events. The 10m Air Pistol competition will also feature Suruchi and Kamaljeet, as well as Aakash Bhardwaj, while the 25m category sees Manu and Esha joined by Rahi.

Anish, currently ranked World No. 8, is set to compete in the men’s 25m Rapid Fire Pistol event, with finals taking place on October 1. His inclusion further emphasises the strong competitive spirit within the Indian shooting team.

Overview of the Shotgun Competition

The Shotgun squad showcases a blend of experience, featuring Olympians and medallists from past Asian Games. In the male Trap events, Kynan Chenai, Ahvar Rizvi, and Shapath Bharadwaj will represent India. Kynan’s achievements include winning gold in the men’s trap team event at the 2023 Asian Games.

In women’s Trap, Aashima Ahlawat, Manisha Keer, and Neeru will compete. Notably, Neeru enters the Games after a remarkable gold medal win in women’s Trap at the recent Asian Championships. Her previous successes include a gold at the ISSF Shotgun World Cup, making her a key contender.

The competition will feature additional events such as Skeet, where Anantjeet Singh Naruka will compete, contributing his experience as a former Asian champion. His presence adds depth to India’s shotgun lineup as the athletes prepare for a rigorous challenge at the Games.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share