In a bid to elevate the status of shooting sports in India, the Shooting League of India (SLI) is set to launch on the outskirts of Delhi in November. This franchise-based league will feature six to eight teams composed of a diverse mix of international shooting stars and local talents. Kalikesh Singh Deo, President of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), emphasized that despite the consistent success of Indian shooters at the Olympics and other competitions, the sport currently lacks the visibility it deserves.
The league intends not only to showcase Indian shooters but also to increase the overall popularity of the sport. Each team will comprise a 12-member squad, including six male and six female shooters, with the option to include up to four international competitors. More than 70 shooters from 25 different countries are expected to register for the upcoming auction, indicating strong international interest in the league.
Deo recognized the similarities with the Indian Premier League (IPL), acknowledging that learning from cricket's successful format could benefit shooting. However, he clarified that they do not aim to compete with cricket, but rather seek to bring recognition to shooting as a highly successful sport in India. The SLI aims to be a vibrant and exciting league, promising value to franchises and sponsors alike.
Despite India's overall modest performance at the Olympics, shooters have made significant contributions, securing three of the six medals won by the country during the Paris Games. The league has been designed to nurture young talent by mandating that franchises include a minimum of two shooters under the age of 21, which will pave the way for future Olympic contenders. The NRAI plans to unveil franchise details and broadcast partnerships soon.
Support for the initiative has come from the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF), with its secretary general expressing enthusiasm about the potential to reach new audiences and improve competitive opportunities for athletes. They praise the NRAI for this innovative effort and wish the league success in its debut season.
6 Comments
Manolo Noriega
What guarantee is there that this won't vanish after a couple of years, leaving everyone disappointed?
Fuerza
International competitors? Sounds expensive. Will this benefit Indian shooters or mostly foreign stars?
Manolo Noriega
Finally! Shooting deserves the limelight! Let's hope this league brings the sport to the masses.
Ongania
Fantastic to see support from ISSF. This adds credibility and highlights the potential.
Fuerza
The success of Indian shooters should speak for itself. Why manufacture artificial hype with a league?
Michelangelo
This could be great for Indian Shooting in the long term. Definitely worth supporting!