News for 'Cricket Needs'

'Don't Give Him Special Treatment': Ashwin on Pant

'Don't Give Him Special Treatment': Ashwin on Pant

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed his concern over Rishabh Pant's shot selection, stating that while his attacking style brings unforgettable moments, the wicketkeeper-batter needs to learn when to rein himself in and prioritise the team's needs over his natural instinct to attack.

'He will lead India for a long time': Kohli backs Gill's captaincy

'He will lead India for a long time': Kohli backs Gill's captaincy

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

Virat Kohli has expressed strong confidence in Shubman Gill's leadership potential, stating that Gill possesses the right perspective and intensity to captain India for a long time.

Mohammed Shami reveals desire to reach next level in his career

Mohammed Shami reveals desire to reach next level in his career

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Veteran Indian pacer Mohammed Shami discusses his undiminished motivation and desire to reach the "next level" in his career, despite not playing for India since March 2025. He reflects on East Zone's Duleep Trophy final victory, which coincided with his 100th first-class match, and shares insights on playing domestic cricket, mentoring young players, and his tactical approach to bowling in challenging conditions.

Jay Meena: Ball Boy To Asian Games Medallist

Jay Meena: Ball Boy To Asian Games Medallist

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

Jay Meena dreamed of becoming a cricketer, but fate had other plans.

Can Bangladesh shock India in Asia Cup semifinal?

Can Bangladesh shock India in Asia Cup semifinal?

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Seven-time champions India are strong favourites against Bangladesh in the Women's Asia Cup semi-final. The match carries an underlying political subtext, adding to the intensity. India's dominant form, led by Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma in batting and Deepti Sharma and Renuka Singh in bowling, contrasts with Bangladesh's more resilient path to the semi-finals.

Shreyas Iyer stresses importance of game time for Jasprit Bumrah's return

Shreyas Iyer stresses importance of game time for Jasprit Bumrah's return

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

India T20I skipper Shreyas Iyer has highlighted the importance of regular game time and confidence for Jasprit Bumrah, who is returning from injury ahead of the Afghanistan T20I series, the Asian Games, and the ODI World Cup.

Will Jacks shines with bat and ball as England crush Sri Lanka in first ODI

Will Jacks shines with bat and ball as England crush Sri Lanka in first ODI

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

Will Jacks delivered a career-best bowling performance with 5-22 and an unbeaten 46 runs, leading England to an 89-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first One Day International. England posted 265, with Harry Brook scoring 67, before bowling out Sri Lanka for 176. This win extends England's recent strong form in the ODI format.

Jailer 2: Meet The New Players

Jailer 2: Meet The New Players

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

From Mithun Chakraborty and Vidya Balan to S J Suryah and Hrithik Roshan, Jailer 2 boasts an eclectic new cast. Here's a look at the fresh faces joining Rajinikanth's Tiger Muthuvel Pandian and the films you know them from.

Dhruv Jurel: The Fighter Who Refused to Surrender

Dhruv Jurel: The Fighter Who Refused to Surrender

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Dhruv Jurel showed the same traits as his father did as an army man: Courage, discipline, resilience and an unwillingness to surrender.

'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.

Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan prepare for gruelling format switch ahead of Afghanistan series

Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan prepare for gruelling format switch ahead of Afghanistan series

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Indian cricketers Tilak Varma and Ishan Kishan discuss the challenges of transitioning directly from the Duleep Trophy final to the T20I series against Afghanistan. Both players emphasise the importance of adaptability and professionalism in managing the demanding schedule and format changes, while also highlighting key player additions to their respective Duleep Trophy teams.

Record-breaking Kohli fires India to easy win over Windies

Record-breaking Kohli fires India to easy win over Windies

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Maestro Virat Kohli and skipper Shubman Gill displayed their mastery in 50-over format with virtuoso hundreds as India subdued the West Indies by eight wickets in the first ODI in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday.

'Hope Jaiswal gets his chances in West Indies ODIs'

'Hope Jaiswal gets his chances in West Indies ODIs'

Rediff.com20 Sep 2026

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has advocated for Yashasvi Jaiswal to receive ample opportunities in the upcoming ODI series against the West Indies. Pathan believes this exposure is crucial for Jaiswal to establish himself as a backup opener for the next year's ODI World Cup. He also highlighted the importance of testing India's bench strength, especially with several key players participating in the Asian Games, and backed Naman Dhir's inclusion for his all-round capabilities.

'Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ready for international cricket but...'

'Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ready for international cricket but...'

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has stated that 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is ready for international cricket, but must follow the established process for selection.

India A dominate Day 3, set 363-run target for Australia A

India A dominate Day 3, set 363-run target for Australia A

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

India A, led by skipper Devdutt Padikkal's fifty and Kumar Kushagra's unbeaten 46, set Australia A a challenging target of 363 runs on day three of their four-day match in Puducherry. Australia A ended the day at 55/2, needing 308 more runs to win.

Asian Games: India's Medal Dip And Emerging Sporting Strengths

Asian Games: India's Medal Dip And Emerging Sporting Strengths

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

India finished fourth at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games with 85 medals, a significant dip from the previous edition's record haul. While traditional strongholds like shooting and athletics underperformed, breakthroughs in archery, wrestling, golf, boxing, hockey, and cricket showcased a broadening sporting base. The performance serves as a reality check on sustaining progress towards top global rankings and highlights areas for improvement in mental conditioning and preparation.

Jadeja still in India's ODI World Cup plans, says Bahutule

Jadeja still in India's ODI World Cup plans, says Bahutule

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

India's spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule has indicated that Ravindra Jadeja's prospects for the 2027 ODI World Cup are strong, with his all-round skills being a crucial factor. The team is actively assessing various spin options, including Axar Patel, and using current series to experiment with combinations and fine-tune the squad for the upcoming showpiece event in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia.

13 catches dropped, India Women's coach plays down fielding concerns after Asia Cup triumph

13 catches dropped, India Women's coach plays down fielding concerns after Asia Cup triumph

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Despite India's dominant Asia Cup victory, head coach Amol Muzumdar acknowledged fielding as an area for improvement, while dismissing concerns over the middle-order's performance.

How Kumkum Mohod's Asian Games Gold Reshapes Indian Archery's Future

How Kumkum Mohod's Asian Games Gold Reshapes Indian Archery's Future

Rediff.com9 Oct 2026

Kumkum Mohod, 17, made history by becoming the first Indian to win an individual recurve gold at the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, also securing an Olympic quota for LA 2028. Her victory over South Korea's Oh Yejin in a tense shoot-off has boosted India's confidence to challenge the long-standing Korean dominance in recurve archery. Mohod attributes her success to mental preparation, visualisation, and family sacrifices, and is now focused on securing her individual spot for the 2028 Olympics.

Ishan Kishan credits clear mind for epic Duleep Trophy knock against South Zone

Ishan Kishan credits clear mind for epic Duleep Trophy knock against South Zone

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Ishan Kishan, after scoring an epic 270 in the Duleep Trophy final, revealed that freeing his mind from overthinking and expectations has been crucial to his recent success. He emphasised focusing solely on scoring runs and winning matches, a change that came after a turbulent phase in his career, including losing his BCCI central contract. Kishan highlighted the importance of domestic cricket for reflection and growth, enabling him to return stronger.

Sooryavanshi Could Spark Test Cricket Revival, Says Srikkanth

Sooryavanshi Could Spark Test Cricket Revival, Says Srikkanth

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth believes teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi can revive Test cricket if nurtured properly, urging patience and warning against excessive scrutiny of the young star.

Jadeja's Place In Danger? India Eye Improved Bowling In 3rd ODI Vs West Indies

Jadeja's Place In Danger? India Eye Improved Bowling In 3rd ODI Vs West Indies

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

India's bowling attack, particularly veteran Ravindra Jadeja, is under immense pressure to deliver an improved performance in the third and final ODI against the West Indies in Mullanpur. With the series already secured, the focus shifts to addressing the team's struggles in picking up early wickets and containing runs, especially in the powerplay and middle overs.

Shubman Gill reveals the plan that turned pressure into a record win

Shubman Gill reveals the plan that turned pressure into a record win

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

India successfully chased down a formidable target of 406 runs against the West Indies in the second ODI, with Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma's exceptional batting performances leading the team to a historic victory.

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.

Duleep Trophy final puts Sooryavanshi, Padikkal, Tilak, Siraj in spotlight

Duleep Trophy final puts Sooryavanshi, Padikkal, Tilak, Siraj in spotlight

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

The Duleep Trophy final between East Zone and South Zone will feature a mix of rising talents like Devdutt Padikkal, Tilak Varma, and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, alongside established players like Mohammed Siraj, KL Rahul, and Mohammed Shami. Players will be looking to impress selectors for upcoming national assignments, with Padikkal aiming to continue his red-ball form and Siraj seeking to regain rhythm. The match also marks Shami's 100th first-class game.

Sachin Tendulkar recalls father's profound advice on Teachers' Day

Sachin Tendulkar recalls father's profound advice on Teachers' Day

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Sachin Tendulkar remembered his father Ramesh's timeless lessons on honesty, character and avoiding shortcuts, while launching a fellowship to honour his legacy and expand opportunities for young professionals.

Ishan Kishan's 2027 World Cup Push Spells Trouble For Pant

Ishan Kishan's 2027 World Cup Push Spells Trouble For Pant

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Ishan Kishan's stunning 2026 has thrown him into India's 2027 ODI World Cup plans -- and Rishabh Pant could be the biggest casualty. With the selectors already looking ahead to South Africa, Kishan's red-hot form has turned the wicket-keeper debate on its head.

Sohail Khan Blames Pacers For Pakistan's Test Decline

Sohail Khan Blames Pacers For Pakistan's Test Decline

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

Former Pakistan fast bowler Sohail Khan has criticised the current generation of pacers for their lack of skill development, attributing it to Pakistan's decline in Test cricket. He emphasised the importance of artful bowling over mere speed and highlighted how T20 cricket and internal politics are hindering player development.

'He Might Want To Play IPL, But Don't Go There'

'He Might Want To Play IPL, But Don't Go There'

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

'All the young players might want to play the shorter format, but India should be looking to preserve him for the Test format.'

Jay Gupta Hopes Brazil Match Sparks Indian Football Revolution

Jay Gupta Hopes Brazil Match Sparks Indian Football Revolution

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Indian footballer Jay Gupta expresses his hopes that the upcoming friendly matches against five-time world champions Brazil and Uruguay will ignite a revolution for football in India, similar to Kapil Dev's 1983 World Cup win for cricket. He views the unprecedented fixtures as a crucial opportunity for the Indian team to test their calibre against elite opposition and learn, aiming to build on their recent performance against Panama.

Gary Kirsten tips Dhruv Jurel as a world-class Test prospect

Gary Kirsten tips Dhruv Jurel as a world-class Test prospect

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Sri Lanka coach Gary Kirsten praised Sonal Dinusha's twin centuries and pressure-handling ability, while calling India's Dhruv Jurel a world-class player with superb technique and short-ball skills.

Government interference costs Sri Lanka Women's Champions Trophy hosting

Government interference costs Sri Lanka Women's Champions Trophy hosting

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has withdrawn Sri Lanka's hosting rights for the inaugural Women's Champions Trophy in 2027, citing government interference in Sri Lanka Cricket's administration. This decision, stemming from the presence of a government-appointed Transformation Committee, could also jeopardise the Sri Lankan women's team's participation and will have financial implications for the board.

Shafali Verma fastest and youngest to 3000 runs in WT20Is

Shafali Verma fastest and youngest to 3000 runs in WT20Is

Rediff.com6 Sep 2026

India's Shafali Verma has become the fastest and youngest player to reach 3,000 runs in Women's T20 International cricket during a match against Pakistan in Dubai.

Shreyas Iyer: 'Gautam Gambhir builds a lot of trust and confidence within the team'

Shreyas Iyer: 'Gautam Gambhir builds a lot of trust and confidence within the team'

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Gautam Gambhir builds a lot of trust and confidence within the team, and every player knows their role and has clarity, said Shreyas Iyer, praising his head coach's man-management skills.

Women's T20 Asia Cup: Sri Lanka beat Pakistan, set up final date with India

Women's T20 Asia Cup: Sri Lanka beat Pakistan, set up final date with India

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

India will play defending champions Sri Lanka in the Women's Asia Cup final on Sunday. Sri Lanka secured their spot by defeating Pakistan in a thrilling semifinal, chasing down 131 with a strong recovery after early wickets. India, having a dominant run, aims for a record eighth title, while Sri Lanka seeks to defend their maiden title won against India in the previous edition.

'This Pakistan Team Looks Dispirited'

'This Pakistan Team Looks Dispirited'

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Former England cricketer Michael Atherton has sharply criticised Pakistan's batting performance in the final Test against England, highlighting their "woefully low confidence" and "dispirited" state. The team was skittled out for just 133 runs, failing to cross 200 even once in the series, with key players like Babar Azam and Abdullah Shafique struggling. Atherton attributes this decline partly to the controversial decision to send home seven players and two coaches. Despite the batting struggles, young pacer Razaullah offered a glimmer of hope with an impressive bowling display.

Fortuin runs through Namibia as South Africa complete dominant ODI clean sweep

Fortuin runs through Namibia as South Africa complete dominant ODI clean sweep

Rediff.com13 Sep 2026

Bjorn Fortuin's four-wicket haul sparked Namibia's collapse before Jordan Hermann and Connor Esterhuizen powered South Africa's chase, sealing a commanding nine-wicket win and 3-0 ODI series sweep.

Joe Root Expresses Disappointment Over Recurring Nightclub Incidents

Joe Root Expresses Disappointment Over Recurring Nightclub Incidents

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

England captain Joe Root has expressed his deep disappointment and frustration over recurring nightclub incidents involving national team players, following fast bowler Brydon Carse's recent arrest and subsequent de-arrest. Root emphasised the team's commitment to building a strong culture and addressing off-field behaviour that detracts from their performance.

Mulani's Seven-Wicket Haul Seals India A's Dominant Win Over Australia A

Mulani's Seven-Wicket Haul Seals India A's Dominant Win Over Australia A

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Left-arm spinner Shams Mulani's impressive match-haul of 7/124, including three wickets in the second innings, propelled India A to a commanding 162-run victory over Australia A in the first unofficial Test at the CAP-Siechem Stadium in Puducherry.

India to give bowling back-ups crucial ODI exposure against West Indies

India to give bowling back-ups crucial ODI exposure against West Indies

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

India's bowling coach Morne Morkel emphasises giving opportunities to second-line bowlers like Prasidh Krishna and Gurnoor Brar in the upcoming ODI series against West Indies. He believes this match time is crucial for building a strong bowling group for next year's World Cup. Morkel also highlighted the importance of exposing bowlers to tough match situations to develop their temperament.