Sardar named India's flag bearer for Asian Games

Indian hockey captain Sardar Singh will be the country's flag bearer at the Opening Ceremony of the 17th Asian Games to be held in the South Korean city of Incheon Friday.

The 28-year-old midfielder was also part of the Asiad torch lighting ceremony which started its journey last month from the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium here, the venue for the first Asian Games.

"Sardar being chosen as the flag bearer for India at the 17th Asian Games has brought much happiness to me and the Hockey India (HI) family, making us proud of his achievements," HI secretary general Narinder Batra said Thursday.

"Representing your nation on such a huge international platform is a matter of great pride and I would like to congratulate Sardar on behalf of the entire HI family for this."

Sardar will be representing India for the second time at the continental Games. The skipper, who made his international debut in 2006, has represented the country in 191 international matches till date.

He has represented India at major events including the Olympics, World Cup, World League, Asia Cup, Champions Trophy and the Commonwealth Games. For his outstanding performance in 2010, he was also included in the FIH All Star Team.

Sardar was also honoured with the Arjuna Award in 2012 and under his leadership, India won the silver at the recently concluded Glasgow Commonwealth Games.