Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jul 18: Olympic medallists Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain have been selected as India's flag and baton bearers for the opening ceremony of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow on July 23, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) announced on Saturday.
IOA President P.T. Usha said the honour reflected the outstanding contributions of both athletes to Indian sport and wished the entire contingent success at the Games.
"It is a matter of pride that Mirabai and Lovlina will lead Team India at the opening ceremony at the OVO Hydro. I wish both the athletes and the entire contingent the very best," Usha said.
The decision marks a proud moment for the two Olympians, who have consistently delivered strong performances for India on the international stage.
Weightlifting star Mirabai Chanu, who won a silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics, will once again be aiming for Commonwealth Games success. She claimed the gold medal at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games and remains one of India's most accomplished weightlifters, with multiple medals at the World Championships to her name.
Although she narrowly missed a podium finish at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Mirabai has returned to competition in impressive form and is expected to be among India's leading medal hopes in Glasgow.
Boxer Lovlina Borgohain, who secured a bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympics, will also be looking to add a Commonwealth Games medal to her distinguished career. The Assam-born boxer has enjoyed significant success in recent years, including winning the gold medal at the 2023 World Boxing Championships and a silver medal at the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou.
Despite her achievements, Lovlina is yet to win a medal at the Commonwealth Games and will be aiming to break that record in Glasgow.
The selection of two female Olympians to lead the 126-member Indian contingent at the opening ceremony underscores their status as role models and highlights India's growing strength in women's sport.
The Commonwealth Games opening ceremony at Glasgow's OVO Hydro is expected to officially launch India's campaign, with Mirabai and Lovlina leading the contingent as it marches into the arena.