New Delhi, 06 January (H.S.): Franchise ownership in Indian sports is typically confined to boardrooms, but the upcoming Shooting League India (SLI) is set to break this mold with Mumbai X-Calibers—a franchise whose ownership is a first in Indian sports history. What sets Mumbai X-Calibers apart is that all three of its owners are active shooters, a phenomenon never seen before in Indian professional sports.

Ronak Pandit, who won a gold medal in the men’s 25m standard pistol (pairs) event at the 2006 Commonwealth Games, is currently competing in the ongoing 68th National Shooting Championship in Delhi alongside his co-owner, Zahir Hava.

Indian shooter Fayaz Virani is the third co-owner of the franchise. Their dual roles as athletes and franchise owners mark an unprecedented development in Indian sports.

For Zahir Hava, who has been associated with shooting for over 25 years, investing in the league was a natural decision. In an official statement, he said, “As soon as I heard about the league, I decided I had to be a part of it. I have a deep connection with shooting.

At this stage of my life, staying connected with the sport and giving something back is the best way forward.”

According to Ronak Pandit, the league’s purpose goes beyond a short-term competition. “This league is not just about a two-week tournament. It is a platform to make the sport more accessible and to expand the talent pool, ensuring long-term benefits for shooters.”

The owners of Mumbai X-Calibers are not just aiming to build a strong team but also to infuse the spirit of Mumbai into their franchise. Zahir Hava explained, “The team should reflect the soul of the city. Only then will people connect with it. Mumbai has its own energy and ambition, which we want to showcase in every aspect of the franchise.”

Expanding on this, Ronak Pandit said, “Fans support a team not just for wins, but for its connection to the city, language, culture, and values. At the heart of our identity is Mumbai’s culture and vibe.”

Regarding the team’s name, Pandit shared, “The name ‘X-Calibers’ was suggested by Zahir Hava’s daughter. ‘Excalibur’ is a legendary sword, while ‘caliber’ is a shooting-related term. We liked the blend of these ideas, which led to the name ‘Mumbai X-Calibers.’

”As active players, the owners bring a deep understanding of the sport. They comprehend pressure, formats, and the mental state of athletes not just as spectators, but as competitors themselves.

Zahir Hava added, “Because we are still competing, we know how players react in different situations. This has both advantages and disadvantages, but it certainly gives us an edge.”

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar