Double Commonwealth Games gold medallist Benfeito expressed her delight at being chosen for the accolade on April 4.

"It is with great pride and appreciation that I will carry the flag into the Opening Ceremony of the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast," she said.

"I can't wait to live that special moment with the entire Canadian delegation.

"Marching with a group of inspiring athletes, with whom I share dreams and a common passion for sport, is an amazing feeling.

"It is a great responsibility to lead the team into the stadium, but also an incredible honour that will forever be one of the top highlights of my career."

Benfeito won 10 metre platform and 10m synchronised gold at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Along with her two titles from the Scottish city, she also boasts a Commonwealth bronze from Melbourne 2006 as well as three Olympic bronze medals - one from London 2012 and two from Rio 2016.

The 28-year-old also has four silver World Championship synchronised diving medals thanks to her performances with Roseline Filion, her partner since 2005, who she will once again team up with at Gold Coast 2018.

Canada's Chef de Mission Claire Carver-Dias said: "I am thrilled that Meaghan has been selected as our flagbearer at the Gold Coast Games.

"Canada is the top diving nation in the history of the Commonwealth Games, and it is therefore very fitting that our flagbearer represents that sport."

Benfeito will be competing at the Optus Aquatic Centre during April's Games in Australia, with competition taking place from April 11 to 14.

Canada, who won 82 medals, including 32 gold, in Glasgow four years ago, are expected to send more than 280 athletes to Gold Coast 2018.