Simran Sharma replaces Bhavina as India’s flag bearer at the Para Asian Games

Sprinter Simran Sharma has replaced para-table tennis player Bhavina Patel as India’s flag bearer for the opening ceremony of the Para Asian Games, with the decision taken to ensure Patel is properly rested ahead of the quarter-finals on 19 October.

The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) had earlier named Patel and para badminton star Pramod Bhagat as India’s flag bearers for Sunday’s opening ceremony. However, after considering Patel’s competition schedule and travel requirements to and from the venue, the committee decided to make the change.

In a statement, PCI said the trip would take nearly six hours, leaving Patel with limited time to rest and recover before the quarterfinals.

“The decision was taken to ensure that Bhavina, a wheelchair athlete, gets enough time to rest and prepare for her crucial quarter-final. It takes almost six hours to travel to the venue and back, which would be physically demanding and she would have limited time to recover before the match,” PCI said.

Para athletics head coach Satyanarayana said the team did not want to compromise on Patel’s preparation ahead of Monday’s crucial elimination match.

“Bhavina has a quarter-final match on October 19 and it is important that she gets enough rest and recovery before this crucial match. As an athlete in a wheelchair, it takes almost six hours to travel to and from the venue, which would be challenging, leaving her with a limited amount of time to recover.”

“With her well-being and competition schedule in mind, we felt it was important to make this change. Our priority is to ensure our athletes get the rest they need and are fully prepared to perform at their best when they compete,” Satyanarayana said.

Bhagat, meanwhile, remains one of India’s most respected para badminton players. He won six medals, including two gold and four bronze, at the 2014, 2018 and 2023 Asian Para Games.

Patel has also seen success at the continental event, winning a silver medal in 2018 and a bronze in para table tennis in 2023.

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