Indian kabaddi star
The change in leadership for the opening ceremony was confirmed by the Indian contingent's chef-de-mission, Sahdev Yadav. Toor, who was initially selected to lead the national contingent alongside shooting standout Manu Bhaker, was forced to step aside due to logistical complications regarding his official team kit.
Logistical Issues Force Change in Flag-Bearer
The decision for Toor to withdraw came after it became clear that his official attire would not be available in time for the ceremony. According to the shot-putter, his kit remained in India, and he was informed of his selection as flag-bearer only on Friday. This late notification left him with insufficient time to coordinate the arrival of his uniform.
Toor explained that his kit was expected to arrive at the Nagoya airport at 3:00 pm on the day of the ceremony. Given the tight timeline, he determined that it would be impossible to collect the gear and reach the event venue in time to participate. He noted that the broader athletics squad had also experienced delays in receiving their official kits, which have not yet been distributed to the team members.
Athletics Team Preparation Continues
The Indian athletics team has been based at the University of Tsukuba, near Tokyo, since September 13. The group has been participating in an acclimatisation camp to prepare for the upcoming competition. The squad is scheduled to travel to Nagoya on September 21, providing them with two days to settle in before the athletics events officially commence.
Toor expressed that had he been notified of his appointment as flag-bearer earlier, he might have been able to arrange for his coach, who arrived in Japan recently, to collect the kit on his behalf. With the change now finalized, Sehrawat will join Manu Bhaker to represent the Indian contingent during the opening proceedings in Nagoya.
