From cricket pitch to shooting range: Mairaj Khan chases Asian Games glory at 50

Mairaj Ahmad Khan's sporting odyssey began far from the shooting ranges where he now competes internationally. The Khurja native was a promising left-handed cricket batter who represented Uttar Pradesh in prestigious domestic tournaments including the CK Nayudu Trophy and Vinoo Mankad Trophy during the 1990s.

After joining Jamia Millia Islamia University in 1996, Khan continued his cricket career, competing in inter-university matches and featuring in the Vizzy Trophy. However, what started as a cricketing dream would eventually lead him down a completely different sporting path, taking him from the subcontinent's cricket fields to shooting ranges across the globe.

Now, at 50 years old, Khan remains a competitive athlete at the highest continental level. His selection for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games marks his fourth appearance at the continental championship, underscoring his sustained excellence in shooting sport. Only equestrian competitor Shruti Vora is older among India's contingent for the Games, highlighting Khan's remarkable longevity in international sport.

Khan's transformation from aspiring cricketer to accomplished shooter reflects not only personal determination but also the diverse pathways available to Indian athletes seeking excellence across different sporting disciplines. His journey demonstrates that sporting careers can take unexpected turns, with dedication and skill proving transferable across seemingly disparate fields of competition.