News for 'Cricket Needs'

Australia's batting order faces scrutiny ahead of South Africa tour

Australia's batting order faces scrutiny ahead of South Africa tour

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Australia secured an innings and 51-run victory over Bangladesh in the second Test, but the performance highlighted persistent issues with their top-order batting, particularly for Marnus Labuschagne, raising questions ahead of their South Africa tour.

Joe Root reveals how he plans to end his batting slump

Joe Root reveals how he plans to end his batting slump

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

England captain Joe Root expresses confidence in overcoming his recent batting slump, citing his extensive experience and over 14,000 Test runs as proof of his ability to navigate difficult periods. He also addressed the team's responsible celebration following their series win.

Rohit Sharma needs no proof: Dinesh Lad dismisses critics, counters Saba Karim

Rohit Sharma needs no proof: Dinesh Lad dismisses critics, counters Saba Karim

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

Dinesh Lad, the formative coach of former India captain Rohit Sharma, believes the batter should ignore critics questioning his fitness and form, and simply enjoy his game to return stronger in his favourite World Cup format next year.

India's Sri Lanka win reveals 2 big Test positives

India's Sri Lanka win reveals 2 big Test positives

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

Devdutt Padikkal's assured batting at number three and Manav Suthar's strong performance as a lead Test spinner are the biggest gains for India from their recent Test series in Sri Lanka, addressing key questions surrounding the team's future.

SL vs India 1st Test, Day 2: Padikkal's 167, Jurel's fifty put India in command

SL vs India 1st Test, Day 2: Padikkal's 167, Jurel's fifty put India in command

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

India finished Day 2 on 460/9 after rain restricted play to just two sessions in the opening Test against Sri Lanka in Galle on Sunday.

Why Couldn't India Get Dinusha Out?

Why Couldn't India Get Dinusha Out?

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

'Every batter has a shortcoming somewhere. You need to find where the shortcoming is.'

How Shimla Cricket League Combats Drug Abuse And Boosts Environment

How Shimla Cricket League Combats Drug Abuse And Boosts Environment

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

A rural-level cricket competition in Shimla's Jubbal subdivision is using sports to raise awareness about drug abuse and environmental protection. The 'Shaan-e-Bushahr' Mandhol Premiere League-4, featuring over 80 teams, encourages participants to plant saplings and monitor their growth, building on previous successful tree-planting initiatives.

Why Siraj could be India's secret weapon in Sri Lanka

Why Siraj could be India's secret weapon in Sri Lanka

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Mohammed Siraj is poised to lead India's pace attack in the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, stepping into the crucial role in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah.

1st Test: Dinusha's maiden ton gives Sri Lanka hope, but India remain firmly in charge

1st Test: Dinusha's maiden ton gives Sri Lanka hope, but India remain firmly in charge

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Sonal Dinusha's maiden Test hundred sparked Sri Lanka's fightback in Galle, but India retained firm control after bowling out the hosts for 284 to secure a 178-run lead.

Lord's Test: England rout Pakistan to clinch first home Test series victory in two years

Lord's Test: England rout Pakistan to clinch first home Test series victory in two years

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

England closed in on a first home Test series win for two years as Pakistan slumped to 53/3 at lunch on the fourth day of the second Test at Lord's on Sunday.

'Rest Easy, Legend': Lara's Emotional Sobers Tribute

'Rest Easy, Legend': Lara's Emotional Sobers Tribute

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Former West Indies captain Brian Lara has paid an emotional tribute to the late Sir Garfield Sobers, hailing him as the West Indies' greatest player whose legacy will endure.

Rashid Khan's picks 6 for 34 to lead Afghanistan to 92-run win over Ireland

Rashid Khan's picks 6 for 34 to lead Afghanistan to 92-run win over Ireland

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Rashid Khan's exceptional bowling performance, taking 6 wickets for 34 runs, was instrumental in Afghanistan's 92-run victory over Ireland in the second ODI, giving them a 1-0 lead in the five-match series.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: The Don Bradman Of T20 Cricket

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: The Don Bradman Of T20 Cricket

Rediff.com28 May 2026

The numbers from this season alone are almost surreal. 680 runs in 15 innings. Average of 45. Strike rate of 242. A century, four fifties, best score of 103. 65 sixes and 55 fours from just 280 balls -- a boundary every 2.3 balls, a six every 4.3 balls.

Kuldeep Yadav rested in warm-up due to workload, says India's spin coach

Kuldeep Yadav rested in warm-up due to workload, says India's spin coach

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

India's spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule confirmed that Kuldeep Yadav's absence from bowling in the second innings of the warm-up game against Sri Lanka Cricket XI was a precautionary measure to assess his body after a significant workload, allaying fitness concerns.

'No reason' Virat, Rohit should miss 2027 World Cup

'No reason' Virat, Rohit should miss 2027 World Cup

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Former Pakistan captain Zaheer Abbas has expressed strong belief in Indian batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, stating they still have significant contributions to make and should feature in upcoming ODI World Cups. He emphasised their skill, experience, and fitness as key factors, dismissing age as a barrier. Abbas also touched upon the importance of traditional batting techniques and offered thoughts on Pakistan cricket.

The Untold Story Behind Auqib Nabi's Historic India Test Call-Up

The Untold Story Behind Auqib Nabi's Historic India Test Call-Up

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Auqib Nabi, a right-arm pacer from Jammu and Kashmir, has made history by becoming the first cricketer from the region to be named in India's Test squad, earning a call-up for the tour of Sri Lanka after a remarkable domestic season.

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.

'No curfew': Joe Root reveals England's new approach

'No curfew': Joe Root reveals England's new approach

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

England captain Joe Root has announced there will be no team curfew for the upcoming Test series against Pakistan, expressing trust in his players to act responsibly. This decision comes amidst recent scrutiny over the team's culture following several off-field incidents and player suspensions. Root, who returned to captaincy after Ben Stokes' retirement, believes players should be self-policing.

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.

Ollie Pope opens up on England return, Ashes goal

Ollie Pope opens up on England return, Ashes goal

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

England batter Ollie Pope, recalled to the Test squad for the Pakistan series after a challenging Ashes tour, describes the call-up as feeling like a 'debut' and is determined to prove himself, particularly with an eye on the next home Ashes series.

IPL 2026: New Age Batters Are Rewriting T20 Cricket

IPL 2026: New Age Batters Are Rewriting T20 Cricket

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Urvil Patel's sensational 13-ball half-century in IPL 2026, equalling the fastest fifty record, has ignited discussions about India's emergence as a hub for fearless power-hitters, challenging traditional notions of batting prowess.

Babar powers Pakistan to series-levelling win against Windies

Babar powers Pakistan to series-levelling win against Windies

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Pakistan successfully chased down a target of 75 runs on Day 4 to level their two-Test series against West Indies 1-1, with captain Babar Azam sealing the victory with two sixes despite an injury scare.

Late bloomer Saransh Jain proves perseverance pays with India Test call-up at 33

Late bloomer Saransh Jain proves perseverance pays with India Test call-up at 33

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Age is just a number for uncapped off-spin allrounder Saransh Jain who at 33 years has earned his maiden Test call-up for the upcoming Sri Lanka tour on the back of consistent performances in the domestic circuit and India A.

'This is just what Test cricket needed'

'This is just what Test cricket needed'

Rediff.com1 Aug 2023

'I really hope we've inspired a new generation.'

Resilient Sri Lanka salvage draw as Dinusha denies India in Colombo

Resilient Sri Lanka salvage draw as Dinusha denies India in Colombo

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Sri Lanka's Sonal Dinusha scored an unbeaten 133, his second century of the match, to help the hosts salvage a draw against India in the second Test, denying them a series sweep.

Three-hour spin sessions: How Padikkal prepared for Sri Lanka tour

Three-hour spin sessions: How Padikkal prepared for Sri Lanka tour

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Devdutt Padikkal's childhood coach, Mohammad Naseeruddin, revealed the rigorous training regimen the cricketer underwent, including practising with Kookaburra balls on turning pitches, to prepare for the Sri Lankan spin attack ahead of the Test series.

ICC fines Yashasvi Jaiswal, Asitha Fernando for clash in Colombo Test

ICC fines Yashasvi Jaiswal, Asitha Fernando for clash in Colombo Test

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

India batter Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sri Lanka bowler Asitha Fernando have been fined 25 per cent of their match fees and received one demerit point each for 'inappropriate physical contact' during the second Test in Colombo.

T20 Mumbai League: 'A Team That Plays Smart Cricket, Fights Till The End'

T20 Mumbai League: 'A Team That Plays Smart Cricket, Fights Till The End'

Rediff.com22 May 2026

Tushar Deshpande and Siddhesh Lad will lead defending champions MSC Maratha Royals into the new T20 Mumbai League season, with mentor Abhishek Nayar helping shape a balanced squad built on experience and young talent.

How does Ishan Kishan deal with the Abhishek, Sooryavanshi spotlight?

How does Ishan Kishan deal with the Abhishek, Sooryavanshi spotlight?

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan emphasises staying focused on his role amidst the buzz around young talents like Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, stating, "I don't give so much focus to what's happening outside." He also shared insights on his own comeback and the importance of mentoring young players.

Rishabh Pant's Ancestral Home Reconstruction Underway In Uttarakhand

Rishabh Pant's Ancestral Home Reconstruction Underway In Uttarakhand

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The reconstruction of cricketer Rishabh Pant's ancestral home in Pali-Amdali village, Pithoragarh, has begun, bringing happiness to locals who hope for his increased visits. His mother, Saroj Pant, initiated the rebuilding after a recent visit, aiming to strengthen Rishabh's connection to his roots in Uttarakhand.

India's big 2036 Olympic plan: Talent hunt begins

India's big 2036 Olympic plan: Talent hunt begins

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Indian Olympic Association (IOA) CEO Raghuram Iyer announced a massive nationwide talent hunt targeting children aged 5 to 15 to identify and nurture future athletes, aiming for 30-40 medals at the 2036 Olympics.

LA28 Olympics: Over 6 Million Tickets Sold, Next Sale in 2027

LA28 Olympics: Over 6 Million Tickets Sold, Next Sale in 2027

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Ticket sales for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics have surpassed 6 million, with organizers planning the next public sale for 2027, featuring new sports like flag football and squash, and the return of cricket.

BCCI Secretary Saikia To Head ICC's Governance Review Committee

BCCI Secretary Saikia To Head ICC's Governance Review Committee

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The International Cricket Council (ICC) concluded its Annual Meetings, establishing a new Governance Review Committee headed by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia.

Rahul Dravid: T20 Batting Has Changed, Bowlers Need To Adapt

Rahul Dravid: T20 Batting Has Changed, Bowlers Need To Adapt

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Former India head coach Rahul Dravid believes that T20 batting has evolved significantly, and bowlers need to adapt and improve their skills to stay competitive in the format.

It's frustrating, but 10 out of 10 for the effort and intent: Shubman Gill

It's frustrating, but 10 out of 10 for the effort and intent: Shubman Gill

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Shubman Gill called India's drawn second Test against Sri Lanka frustrating but praised his players' effort, cleared Mohammad Siraj of injury concerns and backed India's WTC qualification hopes.

FIH World Cup: Will India-Pakistan Hockey Teams Shake Hands?

FIH World Cup: Will India-Pakistan Hockey Teams Shake Hands?

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Ahead of their crucial Hockey World Cup 2026 clash, the traditional India-Pakistan hockey rivalry faces an unusual question: will the teams shake hands? This comes after a similar debate in cricket. While the historical record is close, India has dominated recent encounters, winning decisively in the 2023 Asian Games and Pro League.

Duleep Trophy: Shahbaz Ahmed stars with bat and ball for East Zone

Duleep Trophy: Shahbaz Ahmed stars with bat and ball for East Zone

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

India all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed scored a career-best 167 and took three wickets, helping East Zone enforce a follow-on against North East Zone in the Duleep Trophy quarter-final. East Zone posted 467, then bowled out North East for 111, with Abhijit Sarkar claiming five wickets.

'IPL money can put you in a comfortable space': Kohli warns young cricketers

'IPL money can put you in a comfortable space': Kohli warns young cricketers

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Virat Kohli has urged young cricketers to prioritise long-term commitment and respect in the sport over the instant fame and money offered by the IPL, emphasising the importance of being versatile players capable of handling pressure in all formats.

Rohit Sharma remains India's first-choice opener for 2027 World Cup: Aakash Chopra

Rohit Sharma remains India's first-choice opener for 2027 World Cup: Aakash Chopra

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Former India batter Aakash Chopra has said Rohit Sharma should remain India's first-choice ODI opener until the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup as long as he is fit, available and continues to score runs.

Prasidh Krishna: Aggression is in my bowling, not my demeanour

Prasidh Krishna: Aggression is in my bowling, not my demeanour

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Indian seamer Prasidh Krishna clarified that his aggression manifests through his intense and disciplined bowling, not his on-field behaviour, emphasising his adaptability to pitch conditions and team requirements.