Exclusive
Rohan Chowdhury
The Indian shooting contingent is in the middle of an important preparatory camp ahead of the 16th Asian Championship in Kazakhstan, slated between 16th – 30th August. We caught up with Asian Games gold medallist, Akhil Sheoran, just as the team was easing into training mode, to talk about new challenges, upcoming rule changes, and the camaraderie among India’s 50m 3P shooters.
How’s the preparatory camp shaping up?
Sheoran: We’re just getting started—today was only the second day. From tomorrow, we’ll move into full-fledged control matches, targeted training, and performance-enhancement sessions. That’s when the real work begins.
How do you feel about your own form going into the competition?
Sheoran: There’s always something to work on in shooting. But this year has had its own challenges—because of the war, ammunition is harder to source in India. That can affect confidence, so I’ve been focusing on quality training and using the SCATT system to track my technique without firing live rounds.
For readers who might not know—what exactly is the SCATT system?
Sheoran: It’s essentially an electronic trainer that records your aim trace—where you’re aiming, when you press the trigger, and how long you hold it—without actually shooting. Coaches can analyse every micro-movement. It’s a brilliant tool for refining technique.
You’ve also taken up a new post at work. How’s the balance between your job and sports?
Sheoran: I’m fortunate. My officer, AD of Training Rajiv Samarwal, has been extremely supportive. He told me from day one: “We recruited you to perform and play. Focus on your sport.” So, I get the flexibility I need, with just basic formalities to handle at work.
You’ll be competing alongside Aishwary Pratap Tomar and Chain Singh in 3P. How’s the dynamics within the trio?
Sheoran: Chain and I go way back—I was even his roommate during a competition in 2016. We have a great bond, and I’ve learned a lot from him. Aishwary is also a top-class shooter. We share tips, push each other in training, and keep the atmosphere positive.
Which position is your strongest in 3P?
Sheoran: Prone and standing are my strengths at the moment.
Tell us about your recent physical and mental preparation?
Sheoran: We had an excellent 15-day camp in Dehradun for the Indian squad. There were in-depth physical, mental, and psychological assessments. Based on the reports, we tweaked our routines—adding more reps, increasing duration, and incorporating specific mental training exercises.
From January 2026, the ISSF is introducing some equipment changes. How are you adapting?
Sheoran: Yes, the federation has asked us to start adjusting now. The changes include rifle shoes being cut below the ankle, similar to pistol shoes, and jackets and trousers moving from double-layer canvas to single-layer in most areas. It reduces stiffness and support, which makes stability tougher. It’s going to challenge everyone—and likely bring scores down initially. But 2026 will be a trial period, and if shooters around the world agree to go forward with this, then it’ll be permanently implemented.
In the previous Asian Championships, India won 19 medals. Do you expect India to improve on that tally?
Sheoran: Absolutely. This time all three of us—Chain, Aishwarya, and I—are in great shape. We’ll aim for medals in all three events, and we’d like to reclaim the team world record we set at the Asian Games, which China later broke. I can’t speak much about the other disciplines, but we have a strong squad in every sector and hope to do better than last time.
Have you competed in Kazakhstan before?
Sheoran: No, it’ll be my first time, perhaps the first international shooting competition in the country, I believe. The weather should be pleasant—between 17°C and 30°C—but conditions are unfamiliar, so that’s another challenge.
How will you spend the final two days before the event?
Sheoran: I keep it simple—stick to my routine of yoga, meditation, and light workouts. In the last week, we tapered down from 180–240 training shots to smaller, high-quality, target-based sessions, with control matches and final-specific drills. It’s about staying sharp without draining energy.
They leave for Kazakhstan on the night of August 19.
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