Achanta Sharath Kamal and Nikhat Zareen will be Team India’s flagbearers for the Closing Ceremony

Birmingham: The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has selected paddler Mr Achanta Sharath Kamal and boxer Ms Nikhat Zareen as Team India’s flagbearers for the Closing Ceremony of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games scheduled for August 8.

A shortlist of flag bearers was drawn up by IOA Secretary General Mr Rajeev Mehta, Acting President Mr Anil Khanna, and Team India’s Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games Chef de Mission Mr Rajesh Bhandari, with gold medallists from the wrestling and weightlifting teams also considered. The final decision was made by Mr Mehta and Mr Khanna. The fact that the wrestling and weightlifting teams have already left for India was also factored into the final stage of decision-making.IOA Acting President Mr Anil Khanna: “It is with great pleasure we announce Mr Achanta Sharath Kamal and Ms Nikhat Zareen as our flagbearers. Sharath has served table tennis brilliantly all these years and his medals, including a mixed doubles gold, at Birmingham 2022 speak of the class and quality he brings to the highest stage along with his longevity.

“Ms Zareen, the reigning world champion and Team India’s gold medallist in the light flyweight boxing category at these Games is one of our best talents who continues to go from strength to strength, inspiring many, including young girls in India.”