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Xtra Time Web Desk: In a fitting tribute to their remarkable contributions to Indian sports, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has announced that veteran hockey goalkeeper PR Sreejesh and star shooter Manu Bhaker will be the flag-bearers for the Indian contingent at the Closing Ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on August 11.

PR Sreejesh, an iconic figure in Indian hockey, was a late yet celebrated addition to the flag-bearers’ list. His inclusion follows the Indian men’s hockey team’s historic achievement of securing their second consecutive Olympic bronze medal on Thursday. The 36-year-old, who has been a stalwart of Indian hockey for over two decades and represented the nation in four Olympic Games, announced his retirement from the sport after this momentous win.

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“Carrying the flag for India alongside Manu Bhaker at the Closing Ceremony of the Paris Olympics is an indescribable honour,” Sreejesh remarked with palpable emotion. “The Olympics is the pinnacle of our sport, and I am truly humbled by this opportunity.”

The decision to appoint Sreejesh as a co-flag bearer was met with widespread approval. IOA President Dr PT Usha described it as both an emotional and popular choice, acknowledging Sreejesh’s extraordinary service to Indian hockey and sports in general. “Sreejesh has admirably served Indian hockey and sport for more than two decades. His dedication and achievements make him a deserving choice to lead the contingent at this prestigious event,” Usha said.

Interestingly, the IOA had also considered Neeraj Chopra, the silver medallist in javelin at Paris 2024, for the honour. However, Neeraj graciously suggested that Sreejesh should be the co-flag bearer. “I spoke with Neeraj Chopra, and I appreciate the spontaneity and grace with which he agreed that Sreejesh should be the flag-bearer at the Closing Ceremony,” Usha revealed. “He told me, ‘Ma’am, even if you had not asked me, I would have suggested Sree bhai’s name.’ This gesture reflects the immense respect Neeraj has for Sreejesh and his unparalleled contribution to Indian sport.”

Manu Bhaker, the 23-year-old pistol shooter, who was named a flag-bearer earlier, will stand alongside Sreejesh during the ceremony. Bhaker, who has quickly risen to prominence in the world of shooting, etched her name in the annals of Indian sports history by winning two medals at the Paris 2024 Olympics. With this achievement, she joins PV Sindhu as the only other Indian woman to have won two Olympic medals.

The choice of Sreejesh and Bhaker as flag-bearers underscores the diversity and depth of talent in Indian sports. While Sreejesh’s selection honours a long and illustrious career capped by a final Olympic medal, Bhaker’s appointment represents the bright future of Indian sports, highlighting the emergence of young talent on the world stage.

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It is also noteworthy that Sreejesh had previously been chosen as the flag-bearer during the closing ceremony of the Asian Games last year, where the Indian men's hockey team clinched the gold medal. This consistent recognition of his leadership and achievements further solidifies his legacy in Indian sports.

As India prepares to bid farewell to the Paris 2024 Olympics, the sight of PR Sreejesh and Manu Bhaker leading the contingent will be a poignant and powerful moment, symbolizing the past, present, and future of Indian sports excellence.