Now the answer has come out after days of guess on China's national flag bearer at the opening ceremony of the Doha Asian Games on Friday night - shuttler Bao Chunlai will march in with the flag in his hands.

Bao Chunlai plays during the Thomas Cup semi-finals against Indonesia in Tokyo, Japan, May 5, 2006. [Xinhua]

The Chinese sports delegation in Doha confirmed the news to Tencent.

The 1.9-metre and world No.6 badminton sensation beat many big draws for the job, including his teammate world No. 1 Lin Dan and teen ace hoopster Yi Jianlian.

Cui Dalin, deputy head of the Chinese delegation said a flag bearer must accord with three conditions, namely "an established world-class athlete, known for a high moral standard and sportsmanship, and good looking".

Bao is the member of the Chinese squad to win the Thomas Cup this May and enjoys a wide public praise from funs because of his genial appearance and character.