Asian Games 2026: Manu Bhaker named India’s flag bearer at opening ceremony

Shooter Manu Bhaker and bowler Tajinder Pal Singh Toor will carry the Indian flag at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan on September 19.

Bhaker’s selection was announced by India’s Chef de Mission Sahdev Yadav, while the Athletics Federation of India confirmed Toor as the second flag bearer.

TWO CHAMPIONS LEAD INDIA

Bhaker enters the Asian Games after making history at the 2024 Paris Olympics where she became the first athlete from independent India to win two medals in a single edition of the Games.

Toor, meanwhile, is a two-time Asian Games gold medalist. He won the men’s shot put title at the 2018 Jakarta Games and successfully defended his crown at the Hangzhou 2022 edition.

Both athletes are also among India’s leading medal prospects in Aichi-Nagoya, as the country begins its campaign at the continental multi-sport event.

INDIA BEGINS MEDAL HUNT

The Games officially begin on September 19, although India’s campaign has already seen action in some disciplines. Quimcy Dsouza is one win away from securing what could be India’s first ever medal in teqball.

With Bhaker and Toor leading the contingent to the opening ceremony, India will be looking to build on their performance from Hangzhou, where they recorded their best ever medal tally at the Asian Games.

This is a developing story. It will be updated.

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Issued by:

Debodinna Chakraborty

Published on:

18 Sep 2026 11:58 IST