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Shooting League of India Reveals 2026 Dates: A New Era for the Sport

Get ready for a groundbreaking new competition in Indian sports. The Shooting League of India is officially launching in February 2026 with dates carefully chosen to fit the international calendar. It will feature a franchise-based format with teams composed of world-class athletes from India and abroad. The league aims to dramatically increase the sport's popularity and provide invaluable experience for up-and-coming shooters.

Key Points: Shooting League of India SLI to Start in February 2026

  • League dates are set for Feb 16-26, 2026, aligning with the ISSF calendar to avoid clashes
  • Features mixed-team events across pistol, rifle, and shotgun disciplines
  • Employs a four-tier draft system to balance international stars with emerging Indian talent
  • Aims to provide domestic athletes crucial exposure and inspire the next generation of shooters
2 min read

Shooting League of India to kick off on Feb 16

The inaugural Shooting League of India kicks off Feb 16-26, 2026, featuring top global athletes in a franchise-based format to boost the sport's profile.

"The SLI is a milestone for our sport—franchise-built, athlete-first, and aligned to the global calendar to maximise participation. - Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, NRAI President"

New Delhi, Dec 10

The inaugural Shooting League of India (SLI) is set to be held from February 16 to 26, 2026, with the dates now aligned with the ISSF’s 2026 calendar to avoid clashes with major international competitions.

The SLI aims to showcase high-quality shooting action while giving fans a chance to watch some of the best athletes in the world go head-to-head in a league-style competition format.

Speaking on the inaugural edition and the start of the competition, newly elected NRAI president Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo said, "The SLI is a milestone for our sport—franchise-built, athlete-first, and aligned to the global calendar to maximise participation. With mixed-team formats, compelling storylines, and a premium broadcast, we’re set to deliver a world-class opening season that welcomes international stars and inspires India’s next generation."

Pawankumar Singh, secretary general of the NRAI, added, "We’re excited that the inaugural edition of the Shooting League of India will take place early next year. Featuring top athletes from India and abroad, we anticipate close and competitive matches. The league presents a tremendous opportunity to promote shooting as a sport and offer fans an exciting new format to follow.

"It will also provide domestic athletes with invaluable exposure to top-level competitors, helping them understand how to prepare for major championships and making the sport more inclusive and accessible.

The competition will include mixed team events across various categories — Pistol (10m, 25m), Rifle (10m, 50m 3P), and Shotgun (Trap and Skeet). Franchise-based teams will be split into two pools for the league stage, then advance to knockout rounds.

Players are drafted across four tiers — Elite Champions, World Elite, National Champions, and Junior & Youth — ensuring a balanced mix of international stars, top Indian shooters, and emerging talent.

Former World Champion and shooting legend, Ronjan Sodhi, added, “With tighter formats, mixed-team dynamics, and a premium broadcast, the SLI can translate fine margins into compelling drama. It’s the kind of platform that turns technical excellence into must-watch sport.”

Former World Number 1, Khel Ratna & Arjuna Awardee and shooting legend, Anjali Bhagwat, said, “This platform lets juniors and national champions line up alongside global stars, learn, and raise their game. With a protected window and strong officiating, the league can set new standards for our sport and inspire the next generation.”

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Finally! A dedicated league for shooting. The mixed-team format sounds exciting and will definitely make it more engaging for viewers. Can't wait to see our champions like Manu Bhaker and Anjali Bhagwat being part of this.
R
Rohit P
Good initiative, but I hope the focus remains on sport and not just commercialization. The tier system for players is a smart move to balance teams. Let's hope the broadcast is on accessible channels and not just expensive streaming apps.
S
Sarah B
As someone new to following shooting sports, this league format seems like a perfect entry point. The explanation of the categories and pools is helpful. Looking forward to February 2026!
V
Vikram M
Including Junior & Youth tier is the best part. Exposure to international stars at such a young age will be invaluable for our future Olympians. Bahut badhiya step hai!
K
Karthik V
Respectfully, I have a concern. Aligning with the ISSF calendar is good, but February 2026 is a long wait. Hope the momentum isn't lost and the planning is meticulous. The success of the first season is crucial for its future.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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