IOA names wrestler Sushil Kumar as flag bearer of Indian contingent at London Olympics

New Delhi, July 15 (ANI): The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Sunday announced that wrestler Sushil Kumar, a bronze medallist at the 2008 Beijing Games, will be the flag bearer of the Indian contingent at the upcoming London Olympics.

The names of top boxer Vijender Singh, tennis legend Leander Paes and ace shooter Abhinav Bindra were also doing the rounds for the honour.

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) acting President V K Malhotra announced that Sushil will be India's flag-bearer.

Bindra, the country's first individual gold medallist at the Olympics, was reportedly the preferred candidate of the IOA, but since his 10m air rifle event is scheduled three days after the opening ceremony on July 30, the shooter wanted to focus on his preparations.

Similarly, Vijender's weigh-in is scheduled for July 28 so it was tough for him to do the honours.

Paes had led the contingent in 2000 Sydney Games and IOA decided Sushil should do the honours this time. (ANI)