News for 'BEST'

India Aims To End 44-Year Wait For Asian Games Hockey Gold

India Aims To End 44-Year Wait For Asian Games Hockey Gold

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

India's women's hockey team is set to face defending champions China in the Asian Games final, aiming to secure their first gold medal in 44 years and a direct qualification for the LA Olympics. The team, buoyed by recent successes like the FIH Nations Cup win and a strong World Cup performance, is confident but acknowledges China's strength. Both teams had unbeaten runs to the final, setting up a high-stakes clash.

India Women's Cricket Captain Harmanpreet Kaur Steps Down

India Women's Cricket Captain Harmanpreet Kaur Steps Down

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Harmanpreet Kaur, India's only World Cup-winning women's cricket captain, has stepped down from her leadership role across all three formats, stating she is now 'ready to play for the love of the game again' after fulfilling her duty as a leader.

Suryansh Shedge steps in for Hardik Pandya in India A squad for Australia A ODIs

Suryansh Shedge steps in for Hardik Pandya in India A squad for Australia A ODIs

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

All-rounder Suryansh Shedge has been named as a replacement for the injured Hardik Pandya in the India A squad for the upcoming three-match one-day series against Australia A in Puducherry, with Pandya ruled out due to a fresh injury concern preventing him from bowling pain-free.

Kapil Dev's Message To Indian Golfers For Asian Games

Kapil Dev's Message To Indian Golfers For Asian Games

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Legendary cricketer Kapil Dev has expressed his support for the Indian golf contingent heading to the Asian Games in Japan, encouraging them to play fearlessly and draw inspiration from representing the nation. He highlighted the talent and experience of the six-member team and urged them to compete with confidence and pride.

Bindra urges India to act fast ahead of LA Olympics

Bindra urges India to act fast ahead of LA Olympics

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Olympic gold medalist Abhinav Bindra congratulated Indian athletes for their Asian Games performance but stressed the critical need to enhance the country's high-performance sports ecosystem. He highlighted the urgency required for preparations, with the Los Angeles Olympics less than two years away, advocating for robust systems that support athletes from early stages to build resilience and ensure timely expert intervention.

1st T20I: Shreyas blasts maiden ton, Dhir shines on debut as India storm past West Indies

1st T20I: Shreyas blasts maiden ton, Dhir shines on debut as India storm past West Indies

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

India defeated West Indies by eight wickets in the first T20I, powered by Shreyas Iyer's maiden T20I century and a dream debut performance from all-rounder Naman Dhir, who took three wickets. India successfully chased down the target of 172 with ease.

Three medals, one Asiad: Gulveer's historic feat!

Three medals, one Asiad: Gulveer's historic feat!

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Indian athletes delivered a stellar performance at the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, securing a gold medal in the women's 4x400m relay. The team's victory marked India's first track and field gold at the games. Additionally, India clinched several bronze medals in events like the 4x100m mixed relay, women's high jump, and men's 5000m, with Gulveer Singh achieving a remarkable hat-trick of podium finishes.

India-Pakistan rivalry lifts Asian Games viewership and revenue

India-Pakistan rivalry lifts Asian Games viewership and revenue

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

India-Pakistan clashes in cricket and hockey drew big audiences at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, helping fuel stronger viewership and a 20% revenue rise.

'Right to vote at great peril': SC ex-judge Justice Nariman on EC functioning

'Right to vote at great peril': SC ex-judge Justice Nariman on EC functioning

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Former Supreme Court judge Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman has voiced serious concerns regarding the Election Commission's functioning, stating that the right to vote is 'at great peril'. He called for the Supreme Court's intervention to address 'disturbing developments' within the poll panel, particularly citing issues like voter disenfranchisement during electoral roll revisions and the controversial appointment process of Election Commissioners.

BCCI President Mithun Manhas praises Indian team for retaining Asian Games gold

BCCI President Mithun Manhas praises Indian team for retaining Asian Games gold

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

BCCI President Mithun Manhas lauded the Indian men's cricket team for retaining their Asian Games gold medal, highlighting their exceptional performance under pressure against arch-rivals Pakistan and commending individual contributions from players like Tilak Varma and Abhishek Sharma.

2nd ODI: Gill, Rohit rewrite record books as India sweep West Indies 2-0

2nd ODI: Gill, Rohit rewrite record books as India sweep West Indies 2-0

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Shubman Gill scored the fastest double hundred in ODI history (223 not out) and Rohit Sharma added a century (101) as India chased down West Indies' formidable total of 405 for seven, securing an eight-wicket victory and sealing the series. This historic chase also marked India's highest-ever ODI run chase.

Marquinhos reveals what makes Brazil's India visit special

Marquinhos reveals what makes Brazil's India visit special

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Brazil's star centre-back Marquinhos discusses the significance of their FIFA international friendly against India in Kolkata. He views the match as a "golden opportunity" for the Selecao to gain experience and kickstart a new cycle after their disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign. Marquinhos acknowledges India's strong fan base for Brazil and emphasises the team's commitment to every game, regardless of its "friendly" status, as they focus on rebuilding confidence and winning.

History beckons: India eye Asian Games hockey gold after 44 years

History beckons: India eye Asian Games hockey gold after 44 years

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Forty-four years after their 1982 triumph, India face China for Asian Games women's hockey gold, with Olympic qualification for LA 2028 also at stake.

How India's Women's Hockey Team Conquered Asia

How India's Women's Hockey Team Conquered Asia

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

The Indian women's hockey team defeated defending champions China 1-0 in the Asian Games final, securing a gold medal and an automatic qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Coach Sjoerd Marijne credited the team's disciplined defence, tireless running, and collective effort for the historic victory.

Ganeshotsav 2026: When Bappa's The Centre Of Attention

Ganeshotsav 2026: When Bappa's The Centre Of Attention

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

Families from Mumbai, Pune, Germany and New Zealand share their Ganeshotsav 2026 celebrations with unique decorations, heartfelt prayers, and festive devotion.

India's tennis drought: No Asian Games medal for first time in 40 years

India's tennis drought: No Asian Games medal for first time in 40 years

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

'No point in looking for excuses': Coach Ashutosh Singh on India's Asiad tennis flop.

The Recipe That Tastes Like Home

The Recipe That Tastes Like Home

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

It isn't a fancy food. It doesn't have the national recognition of litti or baati. Outside its little corner of Vidarbha, many people may not even know it exists.

'Best For Investors To Miss India IT Bus'

'Best For Investors To Miss India IT Bus'

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

'...as we believe with the adoption of AI, our IT services companies' revenue models will have to undergo a reset, which may in turn impact their potential for earnings growth.'

Harmanpreet Singh: 'We always dominate in Asia,' says captain after Asian Games hockey gold

Harmanpreet Singh: 'We always dominate in Asia,' says captain after Asian Games hockey gold

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

India's men's hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh expressed confidence in his team's ability to overcome World Cup disappointment and secure the Asian Games title, stating, "We always dominate in Asia."

Indian Tennis Faces Historic Setback At Asian Games

Indian Tennis Faces Historic Setback At Asian Games

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Indian tennis experienced a significant disappointment at the recent Asian Games, failing to secure any medals for the first time since 1986. The campaign concluded with Sumit Nagal's quarterfinal exit in men's singles, alongside early exits for key doubles pairs. Coaches and officials acknowledge the high level of competition and the need for better support and development of the next generation of players to avoid similar outcomes in future tournaments.

Harita's story: Last-minute call-up, Asian Games bronze

Harita's story: Last-minute call-up, Asian Games bronze

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Harita Bhadra, India's Asian Games bronze-winning sprinter, showcased her dual talents by securing a medal in her debut international competition while also planning to design a special piece for her handmade jewellery brand, Dagina. The Loughborough University graduate, who dedicated a year to athletics, overcame a last-minute inclusion to deliver a strong performance in the 200m final, crediting her family's unwavering support.

Asian Games: Barwal's Marathon Silver, Toor's Shot Put Silver Lead India's Medal Haul

Asian Games: Barwal's Marathon Silver, Toor's Shot Put Silver Lead India's Medal Haul

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

India's athletics campaign at the Asian Games saw Sawan Barwal secure an unexpected silver in the marathon with a national record, while Tajinderpal Singh Toor also claimed silver in shot put. Prachi Chaudhary added a bronze in quarter-mile, bringing India's athletics medal tally to eight. The day also saw injuries to medal contenders Jyothi Yarraji and Praveen Chithravel.

Season best sends Animesh Kujur into CWG 200m semis

Season best sends Animesh Kujur into CWG 200m semis

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Indian national record holder Animesh Kujur has qualified for the 200m semifinals at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, clocking his season-best time of 20.46 seconds. He won his heat and finished seventh overall among the qualifiers.

MCC Head of Cricket Fraser Stewart addresses player exodus to T20 leagues, pink ball trials

MCC Head of Cricket Fraser Stewart addresses player exodus to T20 leagues, pink ball trials

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Fraser Stewart, Head of Cricket at MCC, expressed concern over cricketers retiring early from Tests for franchise T20 leagues but acknowledged players' desire for higher earnings with less play. He also welcomed the ICC's decision to trial pink balls in day-time Tests to mitigate fading light issues and boost spectator interest.

Indian Archers Dominate Asian Games Qualification Rounds

Indian Archers Dominate Asian Games Qualification Rounds

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Indian archers Dhiraj Bommadevara and Chikitha Taniparthi delivered exceptional performances at the Asian Games archery qualification, topping individual recurve and compound events respectively. Their strong showing also secured high team seedings, setting India up for a promising medal hunt, especially in compound events where they are defending champions.

India Coach Khalid Jamil Takes Responsibility For Uruguay Defeat

India Coach Khalid Jamil Takes Responsibility For Uruguay Defeat

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

India's head coach Khalid Jamil took full responsibility for the national football team's heavy 1-6 defeat to Uruguay, refusing to blame the weather interruption or player concentration lapses. This loss, following a 0-4 defeat to Brazil, concluded India's FIFA international window with two significant losses. Jamil acknowledged his own mistakes and stressed the need for greater concentration and immediate problem-solving, while Uruguay coach Diego Forlan praised his team's adaptation and India's initial pressing.

Childhood friends Manu, Noble sail to Asian Games silver

Childhood friends Manu, Noble sail to Asian Games silver

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Indian sailors Manu Francis and Kurisinkal Noble secured a silver medal in the men's skiff opening race 9 at the Asian Games sailing competition in Gamagori City, Japan. The duo finished with 23 points, behind China, and had previously won bronze at the Asian Sailing Championships. The women's skiff team finished fourth.

Murali Sreeshankar's Asian Games Silver: From Injury Scare To Jubilant Celebration

Murali Sreeshankar's Asian Games Silver: From Injury Scare To Jubilant Celebration

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Indian long jumper Murali Sreeshankar secured a silver medal at the Asian Games despite suffering an injury during his fourth attempt. His family in Palakkad, Keralam, experienced a mix of anxiety and joy as they watched him compete, celebrating his remarkable comeback from a previous career-threatening injury.

Sri Lankan gold medallist Rumesh Pathirage says he missed injured Neeraj Chopra at Asian Games

Sri Lankan gold medallist Rumesh Pathirage says he missed injured Neeraj Chopra at Asian Games

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Sri Lankan javelin thrower Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage secured the Asian Games gold medal, expressing regret over Neeraj Chopra's absence due to injury.

Messi's rocky road to becoming Argentina's greatest hero

Messi's rocky road to becoming Argentina's greatest hero

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Lionel Messi's final appearance for Argentina marks the end of a two-decade international career. Initially unknown to Argentine football authorities and facing skepticism, Messi's bond with his home country strengthened over time, culminating in World Cup glory. This retrospective explores his challenging journey from a Barcelona prodigy to an undisputed national icon.

President Murmu Congratulates Indian Athletes For Asian Games Success

President Murmu Congratulates Indian Athletes For Asian Games Success

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

President Droupadi Murmu extended her congratulations to Indian athletes who won medals on Day 9 of the Asian Games. She specifically lauded the women's 4x400m relay team for their historic gold, shooter Neeru Dhanda for India's first individual gold and a new Asian record, and other medalists in shooting, high jump, relays, distance running, and boxing, highlighting their achievements as a source of national pride and inspiration.

Kohli, Rohit Chase Tendulkar's ODI Records

Kohli, Rohit Chase Tendulkar's ODI Records

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Indian cricket stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are on the cusp of achieving significant career milestones in the upcoming One-Day International series against West Indies, with Kohli nearing 15,000 ODI runs and Rohit approaching 12,000 ODI runs and 10,000 runs as an opener.

Asian Games: Champion boxer Lovlina's parents express immense pride

Asian Games: Champion boxer Lovlina's parents express immense pride

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Boxer Lovlina Borgohain's parents expressed immense joy and pride after their daughter clinched a gold medal at the Asian Games. They highlighted her hard work and dedication, noting her long-standing goal to upgrade her previous silver to gold. The family also shared Lovlina's future aspirations, including an Olympic gold and upcoming world championships.

Tom Cruise's Digger Arrives In Los Angeles

Tom Cruise's Digger Arrives In Los Angeles

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Here's a ringside view of Tom Cruise's Digger premiere in Los Angeles.

India keeps Russia-Ukraine peace effort alive, says Jaishankar

India keeps Russia-Ukraine peace effort alive, says Jaishankar

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar stated that the world is entering an age of flux marked by conflicts and tariff volatility, requiring India to respond effectively to these challenges. He reiterated India's consistent stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, advocating for dialogue and diplomacy, and highlighted India's efforts to engage with both sides. Jaishankar also emphasised India's role in championing the voice of the Global South and navigating complex strategic partnerships in a multi-aligned world.

India breaches 50-medal mark at Asian Games with historic golds

India breaches 50-medal mark at Asian Games with historic golds

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

India achieved significant milestones at the Asian Games, securing its first-ever women's trap gold through Neeru Dhanda and another gold in the women's 4x400m relay. These victories pushed India's medal tally past 50, placing the country in the top 10. The day also saw strong performances in boxing, volleyball, archery, squash, and tennis, contributing to a successful outing despite some disappointments in other events.

Before Awarapan 2, Emraan Hashmi's 10 Best Films, Ranked

Before Awarapan 2, Emraan Hashmi's 10 Best Films, Ranked

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Before Awarapan 2 tests his comeback, we revisit the 10 films that made Emraan Hashmi the ultimate frontbencher favourite.

Virat Kohli brushes aside greatness debate, sets sights on historic ODI milestone

Virat Kohli brushes aside greatness debate, sets sights on historic ODI milestone

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Virat Kohli downplays 'greatest ever' debate while closing in on 15,000 ODI runs and several Sachin Tendulkar records, including centuries and most ODI runs at home.

FIFA friendly: India secure impressive draw against 44th ranked Panama

FIFA friendly: India secure impressive draw against 44th ranked Panama

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

The Indian football team, ranked 138th, achieved a commendable 1-1 draw against world No. 44 Panama in a FIFA International friendly. Ryan Williams scored for India, while Omar Valencia equalised for Panama. This result is considered a significant achievement under coach Khalid Jamil and provides a morale boost ahead of upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Uruguay.

Ishan Kishan battled cracks, spin and doubt to take India into Asian Games final

Ishan Kishan battled cracks, spin and doubt to take India into Asian Games final

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Ishan Kishan's unbeaten 80 off 46 balls against Sri Lanka in the Asian Games semi-final was a 'gem' on a difficult, cracked pitch, securing India's spot in the gold medal match against Pakistan.