News for 'Controversial Australia'

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

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

Rediff.com4 days ago

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.

Jaiswal's controversial run-out vs Sri Lanka sparks debate

Jaiswal's controversial run-out vs Sri Lanka sparks debate

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Yashasvi Jaiswal was unfortunately run out for 32 on Day 1 of the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle after a bizarre mix-up with KL Rahul and a collision with debutant bowler Keshara Nuwantha.

Ash Gardner's wife accuses Australia star of cheating with teammate

Ash Gardner's wife accuses Australia star of cheating with teammate

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Australia vice-captain Ashleigh Gardner faces a personal controversy after estranged wife Monica Wright publicly accused her of infidelity and named teammate Georgia Voll. Neither Gardner nor Cricket Australia has responded.

Almiron Red Card: New Rule Controversy

Almiron Red Card: New Rule Controversy

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Miguel Almiron became the first player sent off at the World Cup for violating a new rule against covering mouths during confrontations. His dismissal left Paraguay with 10 men, but they still secured a 1-0 victory over Turkey, keeping their World Cup hopes alive while eliminating Turkey. The incident has sparked debate among coaches about the impact of new rules on the game's essence.

Smith's honest DRS admission after lucky escape

Smith's honest DRS admission after lucky escape

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Australia's top-scorer Steve Smith admitted he believed he nicked the ball during a DRS review on day one of the first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin, despite the not-out decision being upheld. His crucial innings of 71 helped Australia reach 198, but Bangladesh finished the day strongly at 96 for one, trailing by 102 runs.

Players' Union Slams FIFA's 'Disturbing' $20 Billion World Cup Investment Plan

Players' Union Slams FIFA's 'Disturbing' $20 Billion World Cup Investment Plan

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Australia's players union has joined global criticism of FIFA's proposal to bring private investors into the World Cup and other events, citing a lack of transparency and pressure on member associations to approve the $20 billion plan.

'More focused on money': Ex-Pakistan selector slams players

'More focused on money': Ex-Pakistan selector slams players

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Former Pakistan Test spinner and chief selector Iqbal Qasim has criticised the current generation of Pakistani cricketers for prioritising financial gain, particularly through leagues like the PSL, over dedicated skill development and game awareness, attributing this to a lack of vision among selectors and a general disinterest among young players.

UEFA nations to boycott World Cup over FIFA stake sale plans

UEFA nations to boycott World Cup over FIFA stake sale plans

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

UEFA's member associations have unanimously voted to boycott the World Cup and other FIFA competitions in protest against FIFA's plan to sell stakes to external investors in a subsidiary managing its tournaments.

AFC slams FIFA's $20bn World Cup plan as 'unacceptable'

AFC slams FIFA's $20bn World Cup plan as 'unacceptable'

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Asian Football Confederation president Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al-Khalifa has strongly criticised FIFA's plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors, calling the lack of consultation "totally unacceptable". He stated that FIFA's unilateral actions undermine continental football and urged member federations to await further discussions before approving the $20 billion proposal.

India's Weightlifters Eye Dominance At Commonwealth Games Despite Doping Setbacks

India's Weightlifters Eye Dominance At Commonwealth Games Despite Doping Setbacks

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

India's weightlifting team, led by Olympic silver medallist Mirabai Chanu, is set to compete at the Commonwealth Games. Despite a reduced squad due to doping violations, India aims to continue its dominant performance in the sport, benefiting from the absence of strong competitors like China and North Korea. Chanu, a strong gold medal contender, plans a cautious approach with the Asian Games in mind.

Independence Day Freedom for Murder Convict Dara Singh?

Independence Day Freedom for Murder Convict Dara Singh?

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Under the Odisha state premature release policy, prisoners whose death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment become eligible for remission after completing 25 years in prison, subject to recommendations by the Odisha State Sentence Review Board and approval by the state government. Dara Singh has now spent more than 26 years in prison.

Inside The Rohit Sharma, Gambhir, And Agarkar Power Struggle

Inside The Rohit Sharma, Gambhir, And Agarkar Power Struggle

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The article delves into the growing friction between Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma and the selection committee head Ajit Agarkar, along with head coach Gautam Gambhir. It highlights a lack of mutual trust and differing visions for the team's future, particularly concerning Rohit's role and the integration of new talent like Yashasvi Jaiswal. The piece draws parallels to past cricketing controversies and suggests a potential end to Rohit's captaincy.

Former Sena-UBT MP's daughter-in-law accuses him of torture, black magic

Former Sena-UBT MP's daughter-in-law accuses him of torture, black magic

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Former Shiv Sena (UBT) Lok Sabha member Vinayak Raut, his son, and five others have been booked for allegedly physically, mentally, and financially torturing his daughter-in-law, Girija Raut, and subjecting her to black magic. The complaint details allegations of abuse, medical negligence, and occult rituals, which the Raut family vehemently denies, stating the accusations are an attempt to pressure them amidst ongoing divorce proceedings.

How FIFA Prepares Referees For The Ultimate World Cup Challenge

How FIFA Prepares Referees For The Ultimate World Cup Challenge

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

FIFA has transformed its referee preparation for the World Cup, treating officials like elite athletes. This rigorous training includes physical assessments, game-like simulations, and advanced data tracking to ensure referees can perform optimally under challenging conditions like extreme humidity and high altitude, minimising errors due to fatigue.

'Captaincy Burned Me Out': Ben Stokes to Retire After Third Test

'Captaincy Burned Me Out': Ben Stokes to Retire After Third Test

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

England captain Ben Stokes will retire from international cricket after the third Test against New Zealand, saying the demands of captaincy had burned him out after a remarkable career featuring World Cup glory and Ashes heroics.

Why Australia's Coach Still Believes in Cameron Green's Test Potential

Why Australia's Coach Still Believes in Cameron Green's Test Potential

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Australia's head coach Andrew McDonald has voiced his support for Cameron Green, affirming his place in the Test squad despite a less-than-stellar Ashes series. McDonald cites Green's strong domestic record and potential for growth as reasons for his continued selection.

Bangladesh vs Pakistan 2nd ODI: Mehidy ignites 'sportsman spirit' row after controversial Salman Agha run-out

Bangladesh vs Pakistan 2nd ODI: Mehidy ignites 'sportsman spirit' row after controversial Salman Agha run-out

Rediff.com14 Mar 2026

Pakistan captain Salman Agha was run out in bizarre fashion by Bangladesh skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz during the second ODI in Dhaka on Friday.

Why Ben Stokes could be SACKED as England Test captain

Why Ben Stokes could be SACKED as England Test captain

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

England cricket captain Ben Stokes and teammate Gus Atkinson are under investigation by the ECB after reportedly breaking a midnight curfew and being involved in an incident at a Chelsea nightclub. A security guard accompanying the players was injured, and the controversy has raised questions about team discipline and Stokes's future as captain.

Nightclub row: Graeme Swann slams ECB, says board focused on policing, not celebrating

Nightclub row: Graeme Swann slams ECB, says board focused on policing, not celebrating

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Former England spinner Graeme Swann has questioned ECB's imposition of midnight curfew on players, and termed Ben Stokes a victim of the culture more interested in policing than celebrating an achievement.

Pakistan hockey federation chief Tariq Bugti resigns over Australia tour fiasco

Pakistan hockey federation chief Tariq Bugti resigns over Australia tour fiasco

Rediff.com19 Feb 2026

Pakistan Hockey Federation president Tariq Bugti has resigned following a controversy surrounding the national team's accommodation during their tour of Australia. b

Cabinet reshuffle imminent; Pradhan, a few others likely to lose ministry

Cabinet reshuffle imminent; Pradhan, a few others likely to lose ministry

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

There are strong possibilities of some Union ministers being sent to take organisational roles in the BJP and party office-bearers being inducted into the Modi ministry.

Cricket World Cup's Biggest Controversies!

Cricket World Cup's Biggest Controversies!

Rediff.com30 Jan 2026

A look at some of the major controversies in past World Cups.

Cricket Australia allows 'Free Imran Khan' T-shirt after initial ban at Sheffield Shield final

Cricket Australia allows 'Free Imran Khan' T-shirt after initial ban at Sheffield Shield final

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

A cricket fan was initially denied entry to the Sheffield Shield final for wearing a 'Free Imran Khan' T-shirt, but Cricket Australia later reversed its decision, classifying it as a humanitarian issue.

4 Indian-Origin Footballers At World Cup 2026

4 Indian-Origin Footballers At World Cup 2026

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

India may not be at FIFA World Cup 2026, but four players with Indian roots will represent their nations on football's biggest stage.

Why are all-rounders getting injured so often?

Why are all-rounders getting injured so often?

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Batting-order flexibility has become a key factor in modern white-ball cricket, and former India all-rounder Vijay Shankar believes players who can seamlessly adapt to different roles are increasingly valuable in a format driven by situational demands.

'KKR fully aware of Green's bowling unavailability': Cricket Australia hits back at Rahane

'KKR fully aware of Green's bowling unavailability': Cricket Australia hits back at Rahane

Rediff.com30 Mar 2026

Cricket Australia said the Kolkata Knight Riders' management is "fully aware" that Cameron Green would be unavailable to bowl in the first few games of IPL 2026.

Selection Calls Under Fire as Australia Face T20 Exit

Selection Calls Under Fire as Australia Face T20 Exit

Rediff.com17 Feb 2026

Australia's T20 World Cup campaign hangs by a thread after shock defeats to Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, with injury setbacks and controversial selection decisions -- including Steve Smith's omission -- drawing sharp criticism.

BCCI alarmed as IPL 'WAGS loophole' under scanner

BCCI alarmed as IPL 'WAGS loophole' under scanner

Rediff.com8 May 2026

The IPL's Anti Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) has raised concerns about unauthorised individuals in team areas, prompting the BCCI to tighten security protocols for franchises during the ongoing season.

Rubio meets Modi, discusses West Asia, extends Trump's invitation to visit US

Rubio meets Modi, discusses West Asia, extends Trump's invitation to visit US

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed various aspects of India-US bilateral ties, focusing on defence, trade, energy, and technology. Rubio extended an invitation from President Donald Trump for PM Modi to visit the US.

'Huge expectation from Cameron Green within the IPL'

'Huge expectation from Cameron Green within the IPL'

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

Cameron Green has also been in focus during his stint with IPL side Kolkata Knight Riders, with Cricket Australia managing his workload due to a lower back injury.

IPL 2026: 'Don't need to answer critics': Parag fires back

IPL 2026: 'Don't need to answer critics': Parag fires back

Rediff.com2 May 2026

Riyan Parag, despite facing criticism, scored a brilliant 90 for Rajasthan Royals in their IPL match against Delhi Capitals.

Gavaskar on Miller's Single Refusal: Intent Can't Be Faulted

Gavaskar on Miller's Single Refusal: Intent Can't Be Faulted

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Sunil Gavaskar defends David Miller's decision not to take a single in the IPL match between Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans, while Kevin Pietersen praises Rashid Khan's performance.

'Recipe For Disaster': Pakistan hockey players shocked as PHF names new coach

'Recipe For Disaster': Pakistan hockey players shocked as PHF names new coach

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

The Pakistan Hockey Federation has replaced head coach Colin Batch with Manzoor ul Hasan, a move that has surprised players ahead of the FIH Pro Nations League and the World Cup.

Japan Arms Policy Shift Sparks China Ire

Japan Arms Policy Shift Sparks China Ire

Rediff.com1 May 2026

Beijing has been wary of Sanae Takaichi's efforts to boost Japan's military profile since taking office six months ago, points out Dr Rajaram Panda.

'Too Many Controversies Under Gambhir'

'Too Many Controversies Under Gambhir'

Rediff.com7 Oct 2025

'Many things that are happening are not good for Indian cricket.'

AIFF Justifies Women's Team Coach Choice, Explains Kit Issues

AIFF Justifies Women's Team Coach Choice, Explains Kit Issues

Rediff.com27 Mar 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has defended its decision to appoint Amelia Valverde as head coach of the women's national team and addressed the controversy surrounding team kits during the Asian Cup.

IPL 2026: Ajinkya Rahane Faces Backlash Over Captaincy Calls

IPL 2026: Ajinkya Rahane Faces Backlash Over Captaincy Calls

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Ajinkya Rahane faces criticism for his captaincy decisions and a controversial 'jealousy' remark during IPL 2026, sparking debate among fans and experts.

AIFF Women's Committee Head Alemao Alleges Harassment By President Chaubey

AIFF Women's Committee Head Alemao Alleges Harassment By President Chaubey

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is facing controversy after Valanka Alemao, head of the women's committee, accused AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey of harassment and intimidation during a recent meeting.

AIFF Defends Women's Asian Cup Preparations After Group Stage Exit

AIFF Defends Women's Asian Cup Preparations After Group Stage Exit

Rediff.com12 Mar 2026

The AIFF defends its preparation for the AFC Women's Asian Cup despite India's group-stage exit, citing extensive overseas exposure and matches. An inquiry has been ordered into a kit controversy.

Pakistan hockey drama: Captain banned, then saved

Pakistan hockey drama: Captain banned, then saved

Rediff.com20 Feb 2026

The Pakistan government has revoked the two-year ban imposed on national hockey team skipper Ammad Shakeel Butt by the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF), deeming the ban illegal and unconstitutional. This decision follows Butt's criticism of the PHF's mismanagement during the recent Australia tour, which led to logistical nightmares for the team.