Eccles and Salmon given Team Wales honour in Glasgow

Reigning Commonwealth Games champions Rosie Eccles and Daniel Salmon have been chosen as Team Wales' flag and baton bearers for the opening ceremony in Glasgow.

Boxer Eccles and bowler Salmon were surprised with the news by Team Wales chef de mission Gethin Jones.

Eccles will celebrate her 30th birthday by carrying the flag and leading Wales out at the Hydro on Thursday night.

The Caldicot boxer is competing at her third and final Games having won silver on the Gold Coast in 2018 and gold in Birmingham.

"I don't think I've stopped smiling, I was speechless and it's not often that happens," said Eccles.

"It is unreal, a huge honour. I feel so fiercely proud to represent Wales again anyway and have my shot at gold for the team.

"But then to carry the flag and lead some amazing athletes out, it doesn't get much better than that."

Eccles recalls watching Olympic cycling champion Geraint Thomas carry out the flag at Birmingham four years ago.

"I remember thinking how proud he must feel and never did I think that could be me in the following Games," said Eccles.

"I'm taken aback that they've picked me."

Baton bearer Salmon, who turned 32 yesterday, was emotional when he was informed of the honour.

Salmon, from Cardiff, will compete in the men's pairs bowls alongside Ross Owen, and is hoping for a third Games gold medal by defending the titles he won in 2018 and 2022.

"I just play bowls I guess that's what is in my head, just going quietly about my business and trying to win medals for Wales," said Salmon.

"That's why I never thought this would have happened, but it's quite amazing."

Team Wales had already announced Paralympic athlete Olivia Breen will be the team captain for the Games before giving Eccles and Salmon the ceremonial honour.

"They're brilliant ambassadors for their country," said Jones.

"They're very proud Welsh people and are the right choice.

"I can not wait to see them carry the flag and baton tomorrow night."