The landscape of shooting sports in India witnessed a transformative moment as the Karnataka State Rifle Association (KSRA) launched the inaugural Shooting League of Karnataka. Adopting an innovative franchise model, the league completed its first-ever player auction, mirroring the excitement of cricket’s premier leagues.
The high-stakes bidding war took place at Hotel The Chancery Pavilion in Bangalore, where eight franchises competed to secure the state’s finest sharpshooters. The much-anticipated qualifying matches are scheduled for February 28, 2026.
Hubballi Shooting Star Secures National Talent
Hubballi Shooting Star emerged as a dominant force during the auction, strategically outbidding rivals to build a formidable roster. The team made headlines by acquiring Nawabzada M.D. Omar Bin Jung for a staggering ₹41 lakh, making him one of the highest-valued athletes in the league.
This investment brings world-class expertise and national-level medalists to the Hubballi-based franchise, ensuring a high-caliber performance in the upcoming tournament. The squad features a balanced mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars across pistol and rifle disciplines.
According to NewsFirst Live, the auction saw 88 shooters selected from a pool of 136 registered participants. Top bids across the league reached as high as ₹44 lakh, signaling a massive shift in the commercial value of shooting sports.
By professionalizing the sport through this auction, the KSRA aims to provide a platform for athletes to gain the same recognition as mainstream sports stars.
A Professional Roadmap to the Finals
Preparation for the league’s debut is now in full swing as teams move to their respective training camps. The competition categories include 10m Air Pistol, 10m Air Rifle, and specialized Trap and Skeet events.
Athletes will showcase their precision and mental toughness during the qualification rounds at the end of the month. Following the intense initial rounds, the grand final will determine the first-ever league champions on March 1st.
This initiative marks a new era for sports in North Karnataka, with Hubballi leading the charge through its dedicated franchise. Local fans are already gearing up to support their “Shooting Stars” as they represent the region on a state-wide stage.
The league’s success is expected to drive grassroots interest in shooting, encouraging a new generation of medalists to take up the sport professionally.
