# Para Asian Games 2026: Flag Bearer Swap

> Simran Sharma replaces Bhavina Patel as India's Para Asian Games 2026 flag bearer last minute.
- Title: Para Asian Games 2026: Flag Bearer Swap · mint | Shortify
- Summary: Simran Sharma replaces Bhavina Patel as India's Para Asian Games 2026 flag bearer last minute. India's flag bearer for Para Asian Games 2026 Opening Ceremony…
- Keywords: para asian games 2026, simran sharma, bhavina patel, pramod bhagat, opening ceremony, flag bearer, india, aichi-nagoya, news, Para, Asian, Games
- Source: mint — https://livemint.com/sports/news/para-asian-games-2026-why-simran-sharma-replaces-bhavina-patel-as-indias-flag-bearer-for-opening-ceremony-explained-11792290830797.html
- Author: Koushik Paul
- Published: 2026-10-18T04:04:03+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: para asian games 2026, simran sharma, bhavina patel, pramod bhagat, opening ceremony, flag bearer, india, aichi-nagoya, news
## Last minute flag bearer change
Simran Sharma will replace Bhavina Patel as India's flag bearer for the Para Asian Games 2026 Opening Ceremony in Aichi-Nagoya.
## Initial flag bearer selection
Bhavina Patel was initially named to accompany Pramod Bhagat at the Para Asian Games 2026 Opening Ceremony.
## Reason for withdrawal
Patel withdrew last minute to prioritize rest and recovery ahead of her quarterfinal match on October 19.
## Patel's competition history
Patel won silver at 2018 Jakarta and bronze at 2022 Hangzhou Para Asian Games.
## Decision rationale
The Paralympic Committee of India decided Patel needed rest before her quarterfinal match.
## Event details
The Para Asian Games 2026 Opening Ceremony starts at 2 PM IST on October 18 in Aichi-Nagoya.
## Key takeaway

India's flag bearer for Para Asian Games 2026 Opening Ceremony changes to Simran Sharma after Bhavina Patel withdrew due to rest needs ahead of her quarterfinal match.