The ISSF World Cup in Buenos Aires kicks off with an exciting schedule for the Indian contingent, and all eyes will be on Saurabh Chaudhary, as he makes his much-anticipated return to international shooting.
The 10m Air Pistol event is one of the key competitions on Day 1, and India will have a strong representation, hoping for a podium finish.
A Look at Day 1 for Team India
India starts its ISSF World Cup campaign with four major events on the first day.
Event Lineup for India (April 3, 2025)
The Big Return: Saurabh Chaudhary in Focus
Saurabh Chaudhary has been India’s biggest name in 10m Air Pistol over the past few years. The former Youth Olympic champion, Asian Games gold medalist, and ISSF World Cup multiple medalist is back in action after a brief break from the international circuit.
His presence in Buenos Aires brings immense hope for India, especially since he has a reputation for delivering under pressure. The 21-year-old will compete alongside Ravinder Singh and Varun Tomar, both of whom are also strong contenders.
With a packed season ahead, including the Paris 2024 Olympics, this tournament will be crucial for Saurabh as he looks to regain his top form.
Men’s 10m Air Pistol – What to Expect?
The 10m Air Pistol event will see shooters competing in a qualification round, followed by the final at 8:00 PM IST, if they make the cut.
The format:
- Qualification: Each shooter fires 60 shots in 75 minutes. The top 8 shooters move to the final.
- Final: The best performers in the qualification round battle it out in an elimination-style format, where scores are reset, and each round eliminates the lowest scorer until the champion is crowned.
With shooters like Saurabh Chaudhary and Varun Tomar, India has a good chance of reaching the final and securing a medal.
Where to Follow Live Scores?
Fans can track live qualification scores at this link:
Other Indian Shooters to Watch on Day 1
Skeet Women – Ganemat, Raiza & Darshna (5:30 PM IST)
India’s skeet shooters have been making steady progress, and the trio of Ganemat Sekhon, Raiza Dhillon, and Darshna Rathore will be aiming to start strong in the 50-target qualification round.
Skeet Men – Anantjeet, Gurjoat & Bavtegh (6:40 PM IST)
The men’s skeet team, featuring Anantjeet Singh, Gurjoat Khangura, and Bavtegh Singh Gill, will also be in action. Skeet shooting is unpredictable, and a strong start is crucial.
Can India Start the ISSF World Cup with a Medal?
India has a rich history of success in ISSF World Cups, especially in pistol shooting. With Saurabh Chaudhary leading the charge, the chances of an Indian podium finish look promising. The focus will be on whether he and his teammates can qualify for the finals and fight for a medal in the evening session.
Stay tuned as India takes the range in Buenos Aires!
