World Shooting Championships Begin Sunday; Manu Bhaker, Esha Singh and Elavenil Lead India's Challenge

The World Shooting Championships are set to begin on Sunday, presenting a major opportunity for Indian shooters to bounce back after a disappointing performance at the recent Asian Games in Japan. India's shooting contingent managed a relatively modest medal tally compared to its previous outing, raising expectations ahead of the global competition. All eyes will be on double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker, who could not meet expectations at the Asian Games. Hyderabad star Esha Singh and Elavenil Valarivan, who impressed in Japan, will also be among India's key contenders. Manu will compete in the 10m and 25m pistol events, Esha in the 25m pistol, while Elavenil will participate in the 10m air rifle event.

The championship will also serve as a qualifying event for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, with 36 quota places available across 12 individual events. Indian shooters are hoping to secure as many quota places as possible to gain sufficient preparation time for the Olympics. Neeru Danda, who won two gold medals and a silver at the Asian Games, will be one of the key contenders in women's trap. In the men's category, Parth Mane in the 10m air rifle, Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar in the 50m rifle three positions, and skeet shooters Mairaj Ahmad Khan and Anantjeet Singh Naruka are among the Indian athletes expected to challenge for medals.