How Did Indian Skeet Shooters Perform on the First Day of ISSF World Cup in Nicosia?
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Synopsis
Indian skeet shooters faced a challenging opening day at the ISSF World Cup in Nicosia, Cyprus. With Abhay Singh Sekhon leading the pack, the competition was fierce. Can they rise to the occasion in the upcoming rounds? Stay tuned!
Key Takeaways
- Abhay Singh Sekhon leads the Indian team with a score of 49, ranking 14th.
- Mairaj Khan remains competitive in the 32nd position.
- Women’s shooters include Parinaaz Dhaliwal and Maheshwari Chauhan, seeking medals.
- The competition features over 350 athletes from 54 countries.
- Two rounds remain before the finals on May 07, 2025.
Bhopal, May 5 (NationPress) Indian skeet shooters experienced a mixed bag on the opening day of qualification at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Cup Shotgun Stage 3 held in Nicosia, Cyprus. Among the six Indian participants, Abhay Singh Sekhon emerged as the standout performer in the men’s event, securing the 14th position with a score of 49 (25,24) hits out of 50 targets.
In a competitive field of 92 men, eight shooters achieved flawless rounds of 25, with Abhay joining a group of 13 who only missed one target.
Veteran Olympian Mairaj Khan also remained competitive, landing in the 32nd position after missing one target per round. Meanwhile, fellow shooter Rituraj Bundela (23,21) found himself further back, having recorded six misses.
On the women's side, Parinaaz Dhaliwal (23, 24) is currently placed 15th, while Yashasvi Rathore (21,23) is in 36th, and Olympian Maheshwari Chauhan (22, 22) sits in 38th place after the initial two rounds.
Two rounds of the five total rounds were conducted during the day, with two more rounds scheduled for Tuesday, followed by the final round on Wednesday (May 07, 2025), where only the top six scores will advance.
The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) had announced a 12-member squad for the Nicosia World Cup back in February, representing both Skeet and Trap disciplines. The skeet events, which will unfold over three days, commenced on Monday, featuring Olympians Mairaj Ahmad Khan and Maheshwari Chauhan leading a team that includes many young athletes at this elite international level.
Over 350 athletes from 54 National Olympic Committees (NOCs) are participating in this event, showcasing some of the finest talents in shotgun shooting.
India's prospects in men's skeet are heavily reliant on Abhay Singh Sekhon, who is making his senior World Cup debut, alongside Rituraj Singh Bundela, who has participated in four World Cups over the last two years, and Mairaj.
In the women's competition, Maheshwari aims to clinch her first senior World Cup medal, alongside Parinaaz Dhaliwal, who has competed in four World Cups. The youngest participant, 18-year-old Yashasvi Rathore, will be making her debut.
Point of View
I observe the performance of our athletes with both pride and realistic expectations. The mixed results from Nicosia reflect the challenges faced at international levels, yet they also showcase the potential of our young talents. We stand with our athletes, supporting their journey towards excellence.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Indian skeet shooters perform on the first day?
The Indian skeet shooters had a mixed performance, with Abhay Singh Sekhon achieving the best score of 49 hits, placing him 14th overall.
What is the format of the ISSF World Cup shooting competition?
The competition consists of five rounds, with the top six scores advancing to the finals.
Who are the key players in the Indian skeet shooting team?
Key players include Abhay Singh Sekhon, Mairaj Khan, and Maheshwari Chauhan, who are all aiming for medals.
How many athletes are participating in the World Cup?
Over 350 athletes from 54 National Olympic Committees are competing in this prestigious event.
When will the final round of the competition take place?
The final round is scheduled for Wednesday, May 07, 2025.
