The world number two, who won his third singles world title in Manchester last year, is also the defending men's singles champion going into Glasgow and won men's doubles gold with Adrian Grant four years ago.

"It's a great honour to be chosen to carry the flag by this incredibly talented team of athletes from Team England," said Matthew, who hails from Sheffield.

"The Commonwealth Games is a pinnacle for squash players in a multi-sport Games environment, and I feel extremely proud to represent all the different sports and athletes here as we unite as Team England.

"I can't wait to share that very special moment with the whole of Team England before we get down to the business of bringing home the medals for our country.

"There are some amazing athletes in our team with the likes of Sir Bradley Wiggins and I am quite humbled to be honest to be leading them out."

Matthew has 29 career titles to his name since turning professional in 1998, including three World Opens and three British Opens.

A delighted Nick Matthew speaks to the media after being announced as the Flagbearer for Team England at tomorrow night's Glasgow 2014 Opening Ceremony ©ITG




He is top seed in the men's singles and after returning to action following recent knee surgery, he will earn his 100th England cap when competition begins on Thursday (July 24) at the Scotstoun Sports Campus.

"I am one of the first athletes to compete in the Games; we have an early start on Thursday so it will be a quick turnaround [after the Opening Ceremony] and I need to remember what I am here for.

"Hopefully I can work my through the rounds and be in the final [men's singles] on Monday (July 28) and then start the team competitions so I'm hoping it's going to be a busy two weeks."

Matthew is one of 650 athletes and officials who will be representing England in Glasgow as the team aim to better their haul of 142 medals, including 37 gold, at Delhi 2010.

Commenting on the choice of Matthew as Flagbearer, Team England Chef de Mission Jan Paterson, said: "Nick Matthew is one of Team England's most successful athletes, and a wonderful choice by the team to lead them into the Opening Ceremony tomorrow evening.

"Nick's is extremely proud to be a defending Commonwealth Champion and his determination to be here to defend his titles demonstrates his passion for Team England.

"He will truly inspire the team as he leads them into Celtic Park to mark the start of what we anticipate to be a very exciting and successful Commonwealth Games for Team England."

Matthew follows in the footsteps of Olympic silver medal-winning badminton player Nathan Robertson, who was England Flagbearer at Delhi 2010.

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