The Japanese Olympic Committee on Wednesday picked javelin world bronze medalist Yukifumi Murakami as captain of the country's delegation for the upcoming Asian Games.

The JOC also selected badminton star Reiko Shiota as the flag bearer for the opening ceremony of the Nov. 12-27 event in Guangzhou, China.

"I am honored to have been picked," said Murakami, who became the first Japanese to medal in the javelin at the world championships last year in August at Berlin.

"I hope everyone involved will be able to do their best and fulfill their potential. I will try hard and hope my practice yields a good result."

Shiota, one half of the "Ogu-Shio" doubles pair who became pin-ups in the run-up to the 2008 Olympics, switched to mixed doubles after Beijing and will be gunning for a medal with Shintaro Ikeda.

"It's both an honor and a heavy responsibility to carry," Shiota said of her role.