Eccles, the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth boxing champion, will carry the Welsh flag, while reigning Commonwealth bowls champion Salmon has been selected to carry the King’s Baton as Team Wales enters the OVO Hydro on Thursday evening.

The appointments recognise two athletes who have not only reached the top of their respective sports but have consistently demonstrated the values that define Team Wales. Through years of dedication, resilience and commitment, both have earned the admiration of teammates, coaches and competitors, making them fitting choices to lead the nation onto the Commonwealth stage.

The pair were each surprised by Team Wales Chef de Mission Gethin Jones as they prepared for what they believed were routine media commitments.

Eccles arrived expecting to film an interview reflecting on her milestone 30th birthday, while Salmon thought he was attending a standard Team Wales team photograph. Instead, both were met by Jones, who revealed they had been chosen to lead Team Wales into the Opening Ceremony.

The surprise marked an emotional moment for two of Wales’s most respected athletes, who now add another proud chapter to already distinguished Commonwealth careers.

Eccles became one of Welsh boxing’s standout names after winning Commonwealth gold at Birmingham 2022 and has continued to represent Wales with distinction on the international stage. Salmon has established himself among the world’s leading bowlers, with his Commonwealth success reflecting years of consistency, dedication and excellence in the sport.

Together, they will lead Team Wales into the OVO Hydro as the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games officially get underway, proudly carrying the symbols of their nation in front of a global audience.

Team Wales Chef de Mission Gethin Jones added: “Selecting our Opening Ceremony representatives is one of the greatest privileges of being Chef de Mission, and Rosie and

Dan are thoroughly deserving of this honour. They are exceptional talents, but more importantly, they are outstanding ambassadors for Welsh sport.

“Rosie has inspired so many through her achievements in the ring and her determination to wear the Welsh jersey with pride. She has an infectious personality that has a positive effect on everyone around her.

“Dan has shown incredible courage, resilience and sporting excellence throughout his career, hoping to add to his extraordinary run at the Commonwealth Games. He continues to be a role model for the next generation across Wales.”