GRANADA, Apr 7: Indian shooters launched their ISSF Rifle and Pistol World Cup 2026 campaign in Granada, Spain, with mixed team events in 10m air rifle and 10m air pistol. The opening contests mark India’s first major test of the season after a disappointing Shotgun World Cup in Morocco.
In the pistol category, Palak Gulia paired with Mukesh Nelavalli, while Sainyam teamed up with Ujjawal Malik. In the rifle category, Sonam Maskar partnered with Gajanan Khandagale, and Shruti joined Arshdeep Singh. They faced strong challenges from Chinese world champions Hu Kai and Yao Qianxun, Olympic gold medallist Xie Yu with Shen Yiyao, and top European squads.
The qualification rounds for 10m Air Pistol began at 12:45 IST, with finals scheduled for 16:30 IST. The 10m Air Rifle qualification started at 15:45 IST, followed by finals at 19:30 IST. All events are being held at the Las Gabias Shooting Range in Granada.
India’s rifle and pistol shooters are aiming to replicate their dominance from last year, despite missing stars like Manu Bhaker, Sarabjot Singh, and Swapnil Kusale. Olympians Chain Singh and Anjum Moudgil lead the squad, supported by emerging talents eager to make their mark.
Officials noted that a strong start in mixed team events will be crucial for India’s medal prospects in individual categories and for building momentum ahead of the Asian Championships and Olympic qualifiers later this year.
