Shooting League of Maharashtra Concludes with Promising Results

The Shooting League of Maharashtra has successfully concluded its inaugural edition, highlighting the state's rich talent pool and setting a foundation for the Shooting League of India. With competitive matches and recognition of individual excellence, the league aims to enhance the sport's visibility and accessibility. Experts believe this initiative will nurture grassroots talent and integrate state-level competitions with national structures, paving the way for a vibrant shooting ecosystem in India. Discover the results, winners, and expert insights from this landmark event.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 22, 2026, 11:39 IST

Overview of the Shooting League of Maharashtra

The first edition of the Shooting League of Maharashtra (SLM) wrapped up successfully, showcasing the state's rich talent and solidifying its reputation as a leading hub for shooting sports in India. This league marks a significant step towards the establishment of the Shooting League of India (SLI), aimed at creating a structured competitive framework for shooters.

Significance of the League

Following the successful launch of the Shooting League of Karnataka earlier this year, the SLM becomes the second state-level league in India. This initiative is pivotal for the long-term vision of the SLI, as it aims to enhance the sport's visibility and cultivate a broader fan base by making shooting more engaging and accessible.

Match Results and Winners

In a thrilling Mixed Team final, Sobo Giants triumphed over Palghar Golden Finger with a decisive score of 17-7, while Aamhi Punekar claimed third place by narrowly defeating Sangli Alpha Lions 16-14.

Celebrating Individual Achievements

The league also recognized outstanding individual performances:

Best Rifle Shooter: Gojiri (Amravati Dhurandhar) - 55 hits

Best Pistol Shooter: Jaj (Sobo Giants) - 42 hits

Best Rifle Team: Amravati Dhurandhar - 89 total rifle hits

Best Pistol Team: Sobo Giants - 72 total pistol hits

Nurturing Grassroots Talent

The league successfully brought together both emerging and seasoned shooters from various parts of Maharashtra, particularly emphasizing participation from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. This team-based format effectively bridges the gap between grassroots involvement and elite performance, creating a platform that not only highlights talent but also inspires future aspirations.

Expert Insights on the League's Influence

Anjali Bhagwat, a former World No. 1 and Olympian, remarked, "This format will significantly contribute to the development of the Shooting League of India, as it prepares shooters for the sport's demands by exposing them to live match pressure."

Deepali Deshpande, a former Olympian and award-winning coach, added, "The success of this league in its inaugural year is a testament to the collective effort of the Maharashtra Rifle Association, and it gives us confidence for an even stronger return next year."

Ronak Pandit, a prominent shooter and coach, emphasized the importance of such leagues in making shooting more relatable and engaging, stating, "Maharashtra has a wealth of talent, and initiatives like this will only enhance that ecosystem further."

Linking State and National Leagues

Pandit's team, Mumbai X Calibre, was well-represented in the SLM, with co-owner Zahir Hawa serving as the Air Pistol Coach for the winning Sobo Giants. This highlights the increasing integration between state-level leagues and the forthcoming national franchise structure of the SLI.

Conclusion

With robust participation, competitive spirit, and extensive engagement, the Shooting League of Maharashtra has established itself as a significant success and a vital component in the development of the Shooting League of India.