India’s Flag-Bearer Changed at the Last Minute, Pawan Sehrawat Replaces Tajinderpal Toor
Sukhminder bhangoo/Babushahi Network
Nagoya, September 19, 2026 : Just ahead of today’s Asian Games opening ceremony, India has made a change to its male flag-bearer. Kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat will now carry the Tricolour and lead the Indian contingent in place of shot-putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has cited a “technical issue” for Toor’s inability to attend the ceremony.
Why Was Toor Replaced?
According to reports, Toor’s official ceremonial kit did not reach Japan on time. Toor said he was informed that the kit would arrive at Nagoya Airport at around 3 p.m. on Saturday, making it difficult for him to collect it and reach the opening ceremony venue on time.
Toor also said that he was informed about his appointment as flag-bearer only a day before the ceremony. His athletics contingent is currently preparing in Tsukuba.
Pawan Sehrawat to Take Charge Alongside Manu Bhaker
Pawan Sehrawat has been appointed as the male flag-bearer in place of Toor. He will lead the Indian contingent alongside female flag-bearer Manu Bhaker. Sehrawat was part of the Indian men’s kabaddi team that won the gold medal at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games.
Toor’s Role at the Asian Games Remains Unchanged
The change is limited to the flag-bearer role for the opening ceremony. Toor will still represent India in the shot-put event at the Asian Games. He has won gold medals at the 2018 Jakarta and 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games and will now aim for a third consecutive Asian Games title.