India Swaps Asian Games Flagbearer Due to Kit Delay

India replaces shot-putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor as Asian Games flagbearer after kit delay. Kabaddi star Pawan Sehrawat steps in.

Editorial Desk

September 19, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Nagoya, Japan — India has made an unexpected last-minute change to its flagbearers for the Asian Games opening ceremony, replacing shot putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor with kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat due to a logistical issue involving his ceremonial kit.

Toor, who is competing for his third consecutive Asian Games gold in shot put, was unable to attend the event because his official attire had not arrived in time. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) confirmed that the decision was made due to a technical problem, and the athlete reportedly informed officials he would not be able to reach the ceremony on time.

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Shooter Manu Bhaker, who earned two bronze medals at the Paris Olympics, will continue as the female flagbearer. Toor said he was told his kit would arrive at the airport by 3 p.m., but he doubted he could collect it and still make the event. He also noted that his coach, who arrived earlier, could have picked up the kit but was not informed of the change in time.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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