Shooting League of Karnataka: cricket-style bidding for shooters

Karnataka’s Shooting League debuted with IPL-style bidding. Eight franchises picked 88 shooters from 136. Top bids hit ₹44 lakh, showing the sport’s rising value

The Karnataka State Rifle Association has launched a ground-breaking initiative to promote shooting sports in the state by adopting a cricket-inspired league model. The prestigious Shooting League of Karnataka held its first phase with a grand and transparent bidding process at a private hotel, marking a historic moment for the sport.

For the first time, franchises acquired shooters through an IPL-style auction, underscoring the growing popularity and competitiveness of shooting in Karnataka. A total of eight franchises — Caliber Capitals, Trigger Action, Bangalore Brigade, Redrum, Mangalore Raptors, Top Guns, Sniper Squad, and Hubballi Shooting Star — participated in the bidding. Out of 136 registered shooters, 88 were successfully selected. The process was overseen by Honorary Secretary G. Sushil, Treasurer Murali V, and Bidding Officer Steve, ensuring credibility and fairness.

Top Bids Reflect Rising Value of Athletes

• Krithartha Devang Savyasachi – ₹44,00,000 (Bengaluru Brigade)

• Anushka H Thokur – ₹43,00,000 (Bengaluru Brigade)

• Mamit Gowda – ₹42,00,000 (Mangalore Raptors)

• Nawabzada M.D. Omar Bin Jung – ₹41,00,000 (Hubballi Stars)

• Shravan M Shashidhar – ₹35,00,000 (Top Guns)

These impressive figures highlight the increasing recognition of shooters as high-value athletes, comparable to cricketers in terms of competitive bidding.

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Competition Categories

The league will feature events across multiple disciplines: 10m Air Pistol (Men & Women), 10m Air Rifle (Men & Women), 25m Pistol, 50m Rifle, Trap, and Skeet.

Program Schedule

• February 28: Qualification Rounds

• March 1: Finals

By creating an international-level competitive environment, the Shooting League of Karnataka provides a powerful platform for emerging talent. This innovative format is expected to usher in a new era for shooting sports in the state, blending professionalism, excitement, and opportunity for athletes and fans alike.

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