Manu Bhaker, Esha Singh Lead India’s 30-Member Shooting Squad at Asian Games 2026

India will begin its Asian Games 2026 shooting campaign on Sunday, with a 30-member squad led by Olympic medallists Manu Bhaker and Esha Singh. China is expected to pose a major challenge.

Manu will compete in both the 10m air pistol and 25m pistol events, alongside Esha. After winning two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics, Manu will be aiming for her first individual Asian Games gold.

Experienced shooter Rahi Sarnobat, who won 25m pistol gold at the 2018 Asian Games, will also strengthen India’s challenge.

In the women’s 10m air rifle, Elavenil Valarivan, Sonam Uttam Maskar and Vidarsa K Vinod will represent India. The men’s 50m rifle 3-positions team will feature Olympians Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar and Rudrankksh Patil, alongside Niraj Kumar.

In shotgun, Neeru Dhanda will be one to watch after becoming the first Indian woman to win an individual World Cup gold in trap.

With a mix of experienced Olympians and emerging shooters, India will look to build on its record 22-medal haul at the Hangzhou Asian Games.