Narang India's flag-bearer at Asian Games opening

Ace shooter Gagan Narang, who won four gold medals at last month's Commonwealth Games, will be India's flag-bearer at the opening ceremony of the 16th Asian Games in Guangzhou, China on November 12, Indian Olympic Association president Suresh Kalmadi said in New Delhi on Tuesday.

"We chose Gagan not only because he emerged India's best athlete in the Commonwealth Games with four gold medals but also because he has been one of the most consistent performers for India in the past few years," Kalmadi said of the 27-year-old rifle shooter, who first shot into limelight in the Afro-Asian Games in Hyderabad.

"Gagan won four gold medals in the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne. In 2008, he won the 10m air rifle gold in the World Cup finals and earlier this year, claimed bronze in the World championship. He is also ranked world No 4 in the 10m air rifle event," Kalmadi added.

The IOA chief said Gagan was handpicked for the honour from among a number of champions.

"It is a pleasure to have such choice and strengthens our belief that Olympic sport in India is progressing in the right direction," Kalmadi said.

The Asian Games will be held in the Guangzhou from November 12-27.