Simran Sharma Replaces Bhavina Patel As India’s Flag Bearer

India’s sprinter Simran Sharma will replace table tennis player Bhavina Patel as the country’s flag bearer at the opening ceremony of the Asian Para Games on Sunday, with officials keen to ensure Bhavina is well rested ahead of her quarter-final on October 19.

The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) had earlier named para badminton player Pramod Bhagat and Bhavina as flag bearers.

Travel Time Prompts Change

The PCI said the decision was taken to give Bhavina, a wheelchair athlete, sufficient time to rest and prepare for her crucial match. The journey to and from the ceremony venue takes nearly six hours, which could leave her with limited recovery time.

Para Athletics head coach Satyanarayana said the team did not want to risk compromising her preparation.

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

Bhagat’s Medal Record

Bhagat, one of India’s most decorated para badminton players, has won six Asian Para Games medals across the 2014 and 2023 editions, including two gold and four bronze.

Bhavina has also enjoyed success at the continental event, winning one silver and one bronze medal in para table tennis at the 2018 and 2023 editions.