Abhinav Bindra, Gagan Narang fail to impress at Rifle/ Pistol World Cup

Both Abhinav Bindra and Gagan Narang looked lacklustre at the ISSF Rifle/ Pistol World Cup.

Indian shooters competing at the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Rifle/ Pistol World Cup in Changwon, South Korea have failed to put on performances that would assure them of Olympic berths at Rio next year.

Olympic medallists Abhinav Bindra and Gagan Narang, two shooters on whom India had a lot of hopes, have failed to rekindle the magic that saw them win Olympic medals. Narang was placed 44 in the 10m air rifle category on Friday, with a total of 619.9 in the elimination round, while Bindra was placed 46th with 619.8 points. Sanjeev Rajput was unconvincing as he finished the day placed 50th with 619.2 points.

Unfortunately, none of the three shooters were able to make the qualifying mark for the final, which closed at 626. Three Olympic quota berths were up for grabs on Friday, none of which India could avail for itself. Had Bindra, Narang and Rajput finished in the top five, they would have been assured of their Olympic berths.

Bindra, who won the National Championship last December was competing in his first major event this year and looked far from his best. Narang too, has had a tough couple months going into the World Cup, as he has struggled to find form.

Following his poor performance on Friday, Bindra tweeted saying he was disappointed with his performance.

Disappointing day in Korea. Head back home and restart the process. Such is life !

— Abhinav Bindra (@Abhinav_Bindra) April 10, 2015