Asian Games 2026: Manu Bhaker announced as India's flag bearer in opening ceremony

Shooter Manu Bhaker and shot-putter 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 Paris 2024 Olympics, where she became the first athlete from independent India to win two medals at a single edition of the Games.

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

Both athletes are also among India’s leading medal prospects in Aichi-Nagoya, with the country beginning its campaign at the continental multi-sport event.INDIA’S MEDAL HUNT BEGINS

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 become India’s first-ever medal in teqball.

With Bhaker and Toor leading the contingent into the opening ceremony, India will look to build on its performances from Hangzhou, where it recorded its best-ever Asian Games medal tally.