Narang remains India's flag-bearer

“Gagan is keen to be the flag-bearer, it is a great honour and if we change it now, it may have an adverse effect. We are trying to impress upon the Indian Olympic Association officials the need to transport him back to the Athletes’ Village quickly so that he can have adequate rest before the competition,” said National shooting coach Sunny Thomas.

Narang is scheduled to compete in the 10M air rifle event on Saturday, a day after the opening ceremony. Earlier, IOA President Suresh Kalmadi had said that Narang remained IOA’s choice and in case he pulled out, badminton ace Saina Nehwal would receive the honour.

Kalmadi was speaking to reporters after the Indian contingent’s official welcome ceremony at the Athletes’ Village. A few coaches, team officials and a clutch of athletes from different disciplines attended the function. IOA Secretary-General Randhir Singh, who was also present, felt it was up to Narang to decide on the issue.

“It’s his call. He has got a competition the next day. Carrying the flag is a matter of pride but it is not an easy exercise, given the weight of the pole and the time he has to spend at the venue. It’s entirely up to him,” Randhir, who was India’s flag-bearer at the 1980 Moscow Olympics, had said.