To avoid clashes with major international competitions and also to align with the ISSF’s published 2026 calendar, the much-anticipated Shooting League of India (SLI) is set to be held from February 16 to 26, 2026. The announcement follows the earlier confirmation that the inaugural SLI has been moved to early 2026. The tournament is expected to deliver plenty of excitement, with several top Indian and international athletes competing across various events. 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 format.
The competition will feature mixed team events in multiple categories — Pistol (10m, 25m), Rifle (10m, 50m 3P), and Shotgun (Trap and Skeet). Franchise-based teams will be divided into two pools for the league stage, followed by 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 Number 1, Khel Ratna and 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.”
Ronjan Sodhi, former World Champion and shooting legend, said, “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.”
“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,” newly elected NRAI president Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo said on the inaugural edition of the SLI.
“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,” said Pawankumar Singh, secretary general of the NRAI.
