Sports

SLI Presents a Significant Opportunity for Advancing Shooting Sports in India and Worldwide, Says Olympic Medallist Tucker

Published

8 months ago

June 10, 2025

The launch of the inaugural Shooting League of India (SLI) has generated tremendous excitement nationwide and even garnered interest from international shooting stars, including multiple Olympic medalists and sport legends.

Mary Tucker from the USA, a silver medalist in the Mixed 10m air rifle team at the Tokyo Olympics, shared her enthusiasm for participating in the SLI. The 23-year-old has previously competed at the NCAA level for the University of Kentucky and West Virginia University, as well as in Germany’s Bundesliga, and she enjoys tournaments that involve team formats.

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“I was really drawn to apply for the Shooting League of India because I love the league format. With my experience in both the NCAA and Bundesliga, I enjoy the atmosphere of competing on a team and having spectators rally behind us. The chance for top athletes and juniors to compete together is an incredible opportunity for the advancement of shooting sports—not just in India but internationally,” Tucker articulated.

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The ISSF has set the timeframe of November 20 to December 2 for the SLI’s inaugural season, which will include mixed team events in pistol (10m, 25m), rifle (10m, 50m in three positions), and shotgun (Trap & Skeet), as outlined by the NRAI Technical Committee.

“India is performing at a high level in shooting sports, making this a fantastic opportunity for Indian athletes to compete against international talent. For us international athletes, it’s a chance to compete alongside top Indian shooters. This league could also foster a fan base and generate global interest in the sport,” she added.

Mary further mentioned that her diverse team experience may provide an edge in the upcoming league, discussing the psychological aspects of representing a franchise.

“Athletes with backgrounds in the NCAA or Bundesliga may have a slight advantage due to our understanding of competing under team pressure. Competing isn’t just about personal or national pride; when representing a city or school, you feel your community’s support and the desire to make them proud. It teaches you to manage that pressure,” she explained.

On a personal level, Mary believes the league will not only elevate the sport’s profile in the USA but also enhance her individual performance.

“Traveling and training with high-level athletes will certainly elevate my shooting skills. The unique experiences provided by this league may push us into unfamiliar situations, which is valuable for growth,” Tucker stated.

“Moreover, demonstrating that a professional league can flourish with international athletes will be a significant achievement. While we have college-level teams, professional leagues are lacking. Showcasing global interest and US success will generate excitement, particularly ahead of the 2028 LA Olympics, attracting spectators,” she concluded.

Mary has also formed connections with numerous Indian shooters and is eager to collaborate with them to enhance her game and glean insights.

“I know several Indian shooters well, including Elavenil Valarivan, and I am excited to witness her development. She has the potential to amass a large following.

“I’m also friends with Anjum Moudgil, who incorporates sports psychology into her training. I’m keen to see how she uses this platform to promote youth engagement and mental health—definitely something I’d support if she pursues it,” Mary concluded.

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Sports

Storm in the First Over: RCB Create New WPL Record

Published

1 week ago

January 17, 2026

Namma Kudla

Royal Challengers Bengaluru created history in the Women’s Premier League by scoring the highest number of runs in the first over of a match. RCB scored a massive 23 runs in the opening over, setting a new WPL record.

This historic moment took place during the match against Gujarat Giants at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Gujarat Giants bowler Renuka Singh Thakur conceded 23 runs in the first over, making it the most expensive opening over in WPL history.

Renuka began the over with a wide delivery. The ball went past the wicketkeeper and crossed the boundary, resulting in five runs. RCB batter Grace Harris then took charge of the over. She smashed four consecutive boundaries, putting the Gujarat Giants under pressure.

During the over, Renuka Singh bowled two more wides, adding extra runs to the total. On the final delivery of the over, Grace Harris struck another boundary. This completed a dramatic and record-breaking first over for RCB.

With this, Renuka Singh Thakur recorded the most expensive first over ever bowled in the Women’s Premier League. The previous record was held by Tanuja Kanwar. She had conceded 21 runs in the first over while playing for Gujarat Giants against Mumbai Indians in the 2023 season.

In the same match, Royal Challengers Bengaluru batted first and put up a strong total. RCB scored 182 runs for the loss of seven wickets in 20 overs. The team showed aggressive batting throughout the innings.

Gujarat Giants chased the target but failed to keep up with the required run rate. They were bowled out for 150 runs in 18.5 overs. As a result, Royal Challengers Bengaluru won the match by 32 runs.

This victory strengthened RCB’s position in the tournament and added a historic achievement to the Women’s Premier League records.

Sports

Historic Test Debut in Guwahati as South Africa Reach 247/6 on Day 1

Published

2 months ago

November 23, 2025

Namma Kudla

On the first day of the second Test between India and South Africa at Barsapara Stadium, South Africa made a strong start, reaching 247 for 6 at stumps.The venue, Barsapara Cricket Stadium, hosted its very first Test match in history — making the day special for Guwahati and cricket in Assam.

South African skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss and chose to bat first.Their openers, Aiden Markram (38) and Ryan Rickelton (35), gave a solid start with a partnership of 82 runs.Later, Tristan Stubbs added 49 before getting out, while Bavuma made 41.

India fought back well thanks to a strong performance by spinner Kuldeep Yadav. He picked up 3 wickets and gave away only 48 runs in 17 overs.Ravindra Jadeja also chipped in with an important wicket, dismissing Bavuma. In the final over before stumps, Mohammed Siraj struck, getting Tony de Zorzi out.At the end of play, Senuran Muthusamy was unbeaten on 25, and Kyle Verreynne was 1 not out.

The light became a concern late in the day. As visibility dropped, play was stopped, and light issues forced the umpires to call it a day early.Overall, India ended Day 1 with a degree of satisfaction. The bowling attack showed discipline, especially through their spinners, and they managed to check the South African momentum.

Sports

India A Post 297/4 as Vaibhav Suryavanshi Smashes 144 Off 42 Balls

Published

2 months ago

November 14, 2025

Namma Kudla

India A began their Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 campaign with a huge total against the UAE in Doha. Captain Jitesh Sharma won the toss and chose to bat first. Vaibhav Suryavanshi then produced a stunning innings. He scored 144 runs from just 42 balls. His knock included 11 fours and 15 sixes.

Suryavanshi reached his fifty in 17 balls. He completed his century in only 32 balls. He added 163 runs for the second wicket with Naman Dhir, who made 34. Jitesh Sharma also played a quick innings and scored a fast fifty.

India A finished at 297 for 4 in 20 overs. The team now holds a strong position in the match.