Search results for 'player fitness'

'No blame game over Bumrah, Sudharsan injuries': V V S Laxman defends BCCI CoE

'No blame game over Bumrah, Sudharsan injuries': V V S Laxman defends BCCI CoE

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

VVS Laxman, head of the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, has defended the CoE against criticism regarding slow player recovery, stating that cricketers are not 'machines' and rehabilitation timelines can vary.

'If Rohit, Kohli score runs why should we look at their age?': Harbhajan

'If Rohit, Kohli score runs why should we look at their age?': Harbhajan

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has voiced strong support for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, emphasising that performance, not age, should be the primary criterion for selection.

Gujarat Prison Institute Upgrades Sports Facilities For Future Events

Gujarat Prison Institute Upgrades Sports Facilities For Future Events

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

The Gujarat Institute of Prisons and Correctional Administration (GIPCA) is developing modern sports facilities, including high-quality grounds, in anticipation of international events like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games. These upgrades, part of a Phase-I renovation by the Police Housing Corporation, will also provide advanced training facilities like smart classrooms and computer labs for departmental trainees. The prison department recently showcased its sporting prowess by winning the 'Champion Trophy' at the DGP Cup 2026-27 Gujarat Police Wrestling Cluster Competition, securing 14 medals.

IPL Stays in Australia's Plans, But Workload Comes First

IPL Stays in Australia's Plans, But Workload Comes First

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Australia's head coach Andrew McDonald discusses how the Indian Premier League (IPL) can be integrated into the national team's demanding international schedule, emphasising the need for workload management, especially for fast bowlers. He highlights the IPL's benefits for player development while acknowledging the challenges of a packed calendar including major Test series and ICC events.

Manpreet Singh Eyes Historic Hockey World Cup Title

Manpreet Singh Eyes Historic Hockey World Cup Title

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Veteran Indian midfielder Manpreet Singh, preparing for his fourth and potentially final Hockey World Cup, expresses his determination to lead India to its first title in 51 years. He highlights the team's experience, preparation, and focus on fitness and defence, confident in their ability to reach the final.

Fit Hardik Pandya could be India's X-factor at 2027 World Cup: WV Raman

Fit Hardik Pandya could be India's X-factor at 2027 World Cup: WV Raman

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Former India coach WV Raman says a fully fit Hardik Pandya could provide India the edge at the 2027 ODI World Cup, highlighting his all-round value while urging the team management to use the next 12-15 months to experiment with combinations and define player roles.

Fit-again Kohli back for England ODIs; Bumrah recalled

Fit-again Kohli back for England ODIs; Bumrah recalled

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Virat Kohli was on Sunday named in India's squad for the three-match ODI series against England next month, subject to fitness clearance.

Prime Volleyball League auction sees record bids for Indian talent

Prime Volleyball League auction sees record bids for Indian talent

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The Prime Volleyball League auction saw Shameemudheen become the biggest Indian buy at Rs 20 lakh, with other players like Muhammad Nihal C K, Shon T John, and Jasjodh Singh also securing significant bids. The auction also highlighted the growing importance of grassroots talent, with several U-21 players earning spots in PVL franchises, underscoring the league's commitment to nurturing future stars.

Sunil Chhetri 'a little jealous' as India prepares for Brazil, Uruguay clashes

Sunil Chhetri 'a little jealous' as India prepares for Brazil, Uruguay clashes

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri expressed a mix of excitement and 'a little jealousy' about the national team's unprecedented opportunity to play against football giants Brazil and Uruguay in October 2026, an experience he never had in his two-decade career.

'Real chance': Savita backs India for World Cup medal

'Real chance': Savita backs India for World Cup medal

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Indian women's hockey team captain Savita Punia believes their recent FIH Nations Cup triumph has instilled the confidence needed to challenge top teams and secure a podium finish at the upcoming World Cup.

Prabath Jayasuriya Reprimanded for Breaching ICC Code of Conduct

Prabath Jayasuriya Reprimanded for Breaching ICC Code of Conduct

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Sri Lanka spinner Prabath Jayasuriya received a reprimand and one demerit point for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct by abusing cricket equipment after his dismissal on day two of the second Test against India.

Amol Muzumdar challenges young India to play fearless cricket at T20 Asia Cup

Amol Muzumdar challenges young India to play fearless cricket at T20 Asia Cup

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Amol Muzumdar wants India's young team to embrace aggressive cricket at the T20 Asia Cup, despite inconsistent form, as they prepare for a crucial six-month campaign ahead.

'Three Olympic golds': India remembers Dhyan Chand

'Three Olympic golds': India remembers Dhyan Chand

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

On National Sports Day, political leaders including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, and several Chief Ministers paid tribute to hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand and lauded Indian sportspersons for their contributions to the country.

BCCI CoE still seeking Head of Sports Science amid injury concerns, says V V S Laxman

BCCI CoE still seeking Head of Sports Science amid injury concerns, says V V S Laxman

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

VVS Laxman, chief of the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE), confirmed that the search for a permanent Head of Sports Science and Medicine is ongoing, nearly 18 months after Nitin Patel's departure, despite mounting injury cases among Indian cricketers.

India's World Cup failure exposes hockey's selection and transition problem

India's World Cup failure exposes hockey's selection and transition problem

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The Indian men's hockey team's failure to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup has highlighted significant issues, including a lack of intent in player transition and questionable selection decisions, according to former players and experts.

Bumrah, Rohit fitness headline India squad meeting

Bumrah, Rohit fitness headline India squad meeting

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Selectors to consider Jasprit Bumrah's workload and Rohit Sharma's fitness when picking India's squads for the upcoming Test and ODI series against Afghanistan.

Difficult to think of cricket without ODIs: Jonty Rhodes

Difficult to think of cricket without ODIs: Jonty Rhodes

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Former South Africa cricketer Jonty Rhodes believes that while bilateral ODI series may become fewer in the future, the 50-over format is unlikely to disappear entirely, with passionate fans continuing to support their teams.

India have fallen behind in WTC final race, says Rahul Dravid

India have fallen behind in WTC final race, says Rahul Dravid

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Former head coach Rahul Dravid believes India have 'fallen behind' in the World Test Championship final qualification race, highlighting the upcoming New Zealand series as a significant challenge for the young team.

Bhatia, Rai, Theegala Make Mark In FedExCup Playoffs

Bhatia, Rai, Theegala Make Mark In FedExCup Playoffs

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Akshay Bhatia finished tied 12th at the BMW Championship with an impressive eagle-birdie finish, securing his spot in the season-ending TOUR Championship. He was one of three Indian-origin players, including Aaron Rai and Sahith Theegala, to perform well in the FedExCup Playoffs. Wyndham Clark claimed a wire-to-wire victory at the tournament.

'Don't see Sanju Samson as back-up opener for 2027 World Cup'

'Don't see Sanju Samson as back-up opener for 2027 World Cup'

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Former India batter Wasim Jaffer has expressed doubts about Sanju Samson's suitability as a backup opener for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027, citing consistency issues in ODI cricket.

Saba Karim On Kohli's Assured 2027 World Cup Spot And Rohit's Fitness Challenge

Saba Karim On Kohli's Assured 2027 World Cup Spot And Rohit's Fitness Challenge

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Former cricketer and selector Saba Karim discusses the prospects of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma for the 2027 ODI World Cup, highlighting Kohli's assured spot due to fitness and performance, while Rohit needs to prove himself. Karim also praises Kohli's multi-format adaptability and addresses Rishabh Pant's struggles in white-ball cricket.

Liverpool manager Iraola keen to focus on results after transfer window closes

Liverpool manager Iraola keen to focus on results after transfer window closes

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola expressed relief at the closure of the transfer window, stating it allows his side to fully concentrate on securing their first Premier League win of the season against Ipswich Town.

Veteran Roelof Van Der Merwe Targets Dream World Cup Finale

Veteran Roelof Van Der Merwe Targets Dream World Cup Finale

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

At 41, Roelof van der Merwe aims to conclude his international cricket career at the upcoming ODI World Cup, ideally in Centurion, South Africa, representing the Netherlands. He discusses his dedication to national duty over franchise cricket, his fitness goals for future World Cups, and his continued impact as a left-arm spinner and fielder. He also highlights the potential of the European T20 Premier League to unearth new talent.

Rahul Dravid On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Induction Into Test Team: Need To Be Patient

Rahul Dravid On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Induction Into Test Team: Need To Be Patient

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Former India captain and Head Coach Rahul Dravid has advised a patient approach for 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, stating he requires 'a couple of seasons of red-ball cricket' to establish himself in the longest format.

Dhoni-Pant Viral Video Sparks New Hookah Debate

Dhoni-Pant Viral Video Sparks New Hookah Debate

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

A recent viral video featuring M S Dhoni and Rishabh Pant has once again brought Dhoni's alleged hookah habit into the public spotlight.

'They've lost fans': Ramiz Raja's big Pakistan warning

'They've lost fans': Ramiz Raja's big Pakistan warning

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Former Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Ramiz Raja has issued a stark warning that the national team's consistent poor performances are causing a significant decline in its fan base. He emphasised that while fans don't expect wins every time, they demand a fighting spirit and competitive attitude, which the team is currently lacking, leading to growing disinterest among supporters.

Iran women's kabaddi team trains in India ahead of Asian Games

Iran women's kabaddi team trains in India ahead of Asian Games

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Iran national women's kabaddi team conducted a six-day practice camp at the Sports Authority of India's Sonepat centre, engaging in matches against the Indian team and local sides.

'Ayush has nothing to lose against world No. 1 Shi Yu Qi'

'Ayush has nothing to lose against world No. 1 Shi Yu Qi'

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Ayush Shetty's coach, Sagar Chopda, believes that the Indian shuttler's challenging World Championships opener against world No. 1 Shi Yu Qi could work in his favour, citing Shi Yu Qi's recent form and the home crowd advantage.

North Zone beat West Zone by 52 runs to enter Duleep Trophy semi-final

North Zone beat West Zone by 52 runs to enter Duleep Trophy semi-final

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

North Zone secured their spot in the Duleep Trophy semi-finals by defeating West Zone by 52 runs in a thrilling quarter-final match in Bengaluru. Left-arm spinners Abid Mushtaq and Nishant Sindhu were instrumental in polishing off the West Zone tail on the final day.

2nd Test: Batting coach explains Kuldeep's omission, rejects fake-illness theory

2nd Test: Batting coach explains Kuldeep's omission, rejects fake-illness theory

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak clarified Kuldeep Yadav missed the second Test due to genuine viral fever, rejecting speculation that the team had any reason to fake illness.

Rohit Speculation Raises Agarkar Questions

Rohit Speculation Raises Agarkar Questions

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Why should the Hitman of Indian cricket walk into every ODI carrying a retirement question on his shoulders? He should be carrying only his bat to the crease, not a suitcase full of speculation about his future, asserts K R Nayar.

North Zone's Duleep Trophy selection sparks controversy, raises questions

North Zone's Duleep Trophy selection sparks controversy, raises questions

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

North Zone coaches Ajay Sharma and Sarandeep Singh are under scrutiny for controversially dropping Sanat Sangwan, the Ranji Trophy's third-highest run-scorer, for the Duleep Trophy quarter-final against West Zone, opting instead for Yash Dhull, who had a significantly poorer Ranji season.

India Celebrates 'Fit India Sundays' And Commonwealth Games Day

India Celebrates 'Fit India Sundays' And Commonwealth Games Day

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya joined a cycling event in Ahmedabad to mark the 75th edition of 'Fit India Sundays on Cycle' and Commonwealth Games Day, encouraging citizens to embrace cycling for fitness and short commutes. The event saw participation from athletes, celebrities, and citizens across India.

Ishan Kishan praises Mohammed Shami's drive for India return

Ishan Kishan praises Mohammed Shami's drive for India return

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

East Zone skipper Ishan Kishan has lauded veteran pacer Mohammed Shami's unwavering hunger and motivation to make a comeback to the Indian cricket team. Shami's impressive performance in the Duleep Trophy semifinal, where he took five wickets, has convinced Kishan that age is just a number when it comes to the 36-year-old's drive to succeed.

Szoboszlai Penalty Earns Liverpool Dramatic Draw With Newcastle

Szoboszlai Penalty Earns Liverpool Dramatic Draw With Newcastle

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Liverpool secured a dramatic 2-2 draw against Newcastle United at St James' Park, with Dominik Szoboszlai converting a stoppage-time penalty. The match also served as a tribute to the late Kevin Keegan, a shared hero for both clubs, with fans and former players honouring his legacy. Goals from Anthony Elanga and Joe Willock for Newcastle were cancelled out by Cody Gakpo and Szoboszlai's late equaliser for Liverpool.

Tsitsipas credits coaching change for renewed calm, confidence

Tsitsipas credits coaching change for renewed calm, confidence

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Stefanos Tsitsipas revealed that ending his coaching relationship with his father, Apostolos, brought much-needed calm and rebuilt his confidence, leading to a strong first-round win at the US Open.

Fit India Sundays Marks Commonwealth Games Day With Cycling Event

Fit India Sundays Marks Commonwealth Games Day With Cycling Event

Rediff.com24 May 2026

The 75th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle drew massive participation across more than 8,000 locations nationwide as the initiative commemorated Commonwealth Games Day and built momentum towards the historic 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad.

Jurel reveals why his century celebration was special

Jurel reveals why his century celebration was special

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Dhruv Jurel's unbeaten 115 against Sri Lanka, inspired by his 'Mamba Mentality' motto, showcased his disciplined approach to Test cricket, contrasting with Rishabh Pant's aggressive style while building a crucial 112-run partnership.

How Indian Badminton Stars Are Set To Shine At Korea Masters

How Indian Badminton Stars Are Set To Shine At Korea Masters

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Newly-crowned Taipei Open champion Tanvi Sharma and former world No. 1 Kidambi Srikanth will lead India's challenge at the Korea Masters Super 300 badminton tournament. Tanvi's recent historic win and Srikanth's return to full fitness set high expectations for the Indian contingent across singles and doubles categories.

Shashank Singh Steps Up Bowling Work, Eyes India Call-Up

Shashank Singh Steps Up Bowling Work, Eyes India Call-Up

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Punjab Kings all-rounder Shashank Singh is intensifying his bowling practice and rebuilding his fielding confidence during the off-season camp, aiming for an India call-up by excelling in his all-rounder role in the upcoming domestic season.