The Tokyo Paralympics is all set to begin today. India has sent its largest contingent to the game this year with 54 para-athletes who will represent the country across 9 disciplines of sports. But as they flew to Japan for the match, some of them have been quarantined to complete the covid protocol.
Mariyappan Thangavelu was picked as the flag bearer for India in the opening ceremony to be solemnized on Tuesday evening. But as two of his co-passengers in his flight tested positive for the covid virus he had to be quarantined by the authorities. Though he has been tested negative 6 times since his arrival, the organizing committee still does not want to take any risk for the safety of the fellow athletes. He is there to compete in the Men’s F42 high jump event.
“On his flight to Tokyo, Mariyappan came in close contact with a Covid positive foreign passenger. Though on reaching the village he has been tested for 6 days and all his reports are negative, but the Organizing Committee has advised not to make Mariyappan participate in the Opening Ceremony today”, said the Indian Paralympics authorities.
Since Mariyappan has been quarantined, Javelin thrower Tek Chand has been picked by the authorities as the new flag bearer for the opening ceremony. He will compete in the men’s F45 event as a javelin thrower. The opening ceremony of the Tokyo Paralympics will commence at 4.30 pm IST.
Also read: Former Paralympics Silver Medalist Deepa Malik Confident Of Para-Athletes Creating History This Year
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