Yao Ming has been chosen to be the flag bearer and lead the Chinese delegation into the arena.

“There were many athletes in our delegation who filled our criteria. After serious consultation we decided on Mr Yao Ming,” Cui Dalin told a news conference.

Liu Xiang carried the flat at the Athens Games. The choice is not too surprising.

The selection of Sudanese refugee Lopez Lomong and now representing the United States at the Olympics, as flag bearer is set to be more controversial.

And as to who will light the cauldron tomorrow night at the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics is wide open.

I have a feeling it will be a survivor or hero of the Sichuan earthquake.