News for 'Defending India'

Harmanpreet Singh Returns To Captain India For FIH Pro League

Harmanpreet Singh Returns To Captain India For FIH Pro League

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Harmanpreet Singh returns to captain a 24-member Indian men's hockey squad for the European leg of the FIH Pro League, a crucial preparatory competition ahead of the World Cup in August.

India Poised For Victory Against Bhutan In SAFF Semifinal

India Poised For Victory Against Bhutan In SAFF Semifinal

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

India, the five-time champions, are set to face Bhutan in the SAFF Women's Championship semifinal, aiming for a spot in the final after a dominant group stage performance.

After WhatsApp, govt sends notices to Telegram, Signal over username feature

After WhatsApp, govt sends notices to Telegram, Signal over username feature

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

India's IT Ministry has issued notices to Telegram and Signal, following a similar action against WhatsApp, questioning their username features due to concerns over increased online fraud, phishing, and impersonation. The government is seeking explanations on how these platforms address such risks, with one homegrown app already disabling the feature.

Former players urge ICC to review Afghanistan's Test status after India rout

Former players urge ICC to review Afghanistan's Test status after India rout

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Former cricketers raise concerns over ICC's policy of awarding Test status based on limited-overs performance, following Afghanistan's heavy defeat to India.

India's U-18 Hockey Teams Ready For Semifinal Showdown

India's U-18 Hockey Teams Ready For Semifinal Showdown

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Both the Indian U-18 men's and women's hockey teams are set to compete in the semifinals of the Asia Cup. The men's team will face arch-rivals Pakistan, focusing on improving penalty corner execution, while the dominant women's team will take on China, aiming to continue their unbeaten run.

Can India complete historic double at women's T20 WC?

Can India complete historic double at women's T20 WC?

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

The 10th edition of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup, starting on June 12 in England, offers several exciting possibilities. Take a look at the contenders and challengers.

Nitish didn't leave INDIA bloc because of me: Rahul

Nitish didn't leave INDIA bloc because of me: Rahul

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi told INDIA bloc leaders that despite public anger indicating a win for the opposition, the main challenge is the alleged lack of free and fair elections due to the BJP's control over state institutions. He urged unity and a strategy of 'resistance' against what he termed election 'theft'.

'The victory that inspired generations': BCCI Celebrates 1983 World Cup Triumph

'The victory that inspired generations': BCCI Celebrates 1983 World Cup Triumph

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

India created history on on June 25, 1983, when they won the ODI World Cup for the first time, stunning the mighty West Indies in a thrilling final at Lord's.

Rise of India Adds New Twist to Women's T20 World Cup

Rise of India Adds New Twist to Women's T20 World Cup

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 begins in England with Australia chasing a seventh title and India targeting a historic double. England, South Africa and New Zealand add to what promises to be the most competitive edition yet.

India vs Afghanistan Test, Day 2: Suthar stars on debut after India pile 564/8

India vs Afghanistan Test, Day 2: Suthar stars on debut after India pile 564/8

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

India reduced Afghanistan to 113 for five at stumps after declaring their first innings on 564 for 8 on Day 2 of the one-off Test at Mullanpur on Sunday.

Cricket Doesn't Respect Reputation; It Respects Courage

Cricket Doesn't Respect Reputation; It Respects Courage

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

This is not just a historic series sweep for Ireland, but for world cricket itself. To beat India, which hasn't been beaten in 16 series over three years, is truly remarkable.

India thump Afghanistan by innings and 300 runs in Mullanpur

India thump Afghanistan by innings and 300 runs in Mullanpur

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Manav Suthar made a sensational Test debut, claiming a six-wicket haul against Afghanistan in the first innings before Washington Sundar took four wickets in their 2nd innings, as India outplayed Afghanistan by an innings and 300 runs on day 3 of the one-off Test.

Six Operation Sindoor heroes' names added to National War Memorial

Six Operation Sindoor heroes' names added to National War Memorial

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Six military personnel, who died in the line of duty during Operation Sindoor last year, have been officially recognised and their names inscribed on a wall at the National War Memorial in New Delhi. This marks the first public release of their names since the operation in May 2025, which was conducted in response to the Pahalgam terror attack.

What To Expect From India's Women's Hockey Team In Australia

What To Expect From India's Women's Hockey Team In Australia

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Salima Tete will lead the Indian women's hockey team in their upcoming tour of Australia, with Lalthantluangi and Shilpi Dabas receiving their first senior team call-ups.

India Women's Hockey Team Prepares For Australia Challenge

India Women's Hockey Team Prepares For Australia Challenge

Rediff.com27 May 2026

The Indian women's hockey team is set to face Australia in a four-match series in Perth, aiming to build momentum for the upcoming FIH Nations Cup in Auckland.

Marijne Reveals Strategy For World Cup And Asian Games

Marijne Reveals Strategy For World Cup And Asian Games

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Chief coach Sjoerd Marijne indicated that the Indian women's hockey team will likely use the upcoming World Cup as preparation for the more crucial Asian Games, which serves as a direct qualifier for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The team plans to field a consistent core group for both events, scheduled just 20 days apart. Dutch dragflick specialist Taeke Taekema will join the team for both tournaments, and skipper Salima Tete praised Deepika's strong return from injury, highlighting her importance as a dragflicker.

Indian Squash Stars Dominate Asian Doubles Championships

Indian Squash Stars Dominate Asian Doubles Championships

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Indian squash players, including Abhay Singh, Velavan Senthilkumar, Joshna Chinappa, and Rathika Seelan, delivered strong performances at the 3rd Asian Doubles Squash Championships in Sarawak, Malaysia, securing top spots in their respective pools. While some pairs advanced, another Indian men's pair was eliminated.

TN hurdler Harshitha takes solo re-run after official goof-up at Nationals

TN hurdler Harshitha takes solo re-run after official goof-up at Nationals

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

In a bizarre incident, Tamil Nadu's R Harshitha was made to re-run the women's 400m hurdles alone on Saturday due to a goof-up by race officials, and she eventually failed to qualify for the finals at the National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships in Bhubaneswar.

Asia's Oldest Football Tournament Set To Kick Off

Asia's Oldest Football Tournament Set To Kick Off

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The Durand Cup, Asia's oldest football tournament, will commence on July 25 and conclude on August 23. This edition will feature 24 teams, including two foreign sides, with matches spread across five cities, including debutant host Ranchi. The tournament continues to be a vital platform for Indian football talent.

India U17s Seek To Bounce Back Against Uzbekistan

India U17s Seek To Bounce Back Against Uzbekistan

Rediff.com7 May 2026

India U17 team will look to bounce back from their defeat against Australia as they face Uzbekistan in their final Group D match of the AFC U17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026 campaign.

DMK to boycott INDIA meet, to sit separately in Lok Sabha

DMK to boycott INDIA meet, to sit separately in Lok Sabha

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) is reportedly set to skip the upcoming INDIA bloc meeting in New Delhi, signalling a growing rift with the Congress party. This development follows a political realignment in Tamil Nadu where Congress allied with the TVK, leading to the end of its long-standing cooperation with the DMK and a request for separate seating in the Lok Sabha.

Parul Chaudhary Sets New National Record In 5000m

Parul Chaudhary Sets New National Record In 5000m

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

India's Parul Chaudhary has set a new national record in the women's 5000m event, clocking 15:04.26 to finish second at the Meeting Nikaia 2026. This performance also secured her qualification for the Asian Games 2026.

Modi under Cong fire over US statements after killing of Indian seafarers

Modi under Cong fire over US statements after killing of Indian seafarers

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

The Congress on Sunday lashed out at Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the US' statements after three Indian sailors were killed in American attacks on ships, with party leader Rahul Gandhi saying the "compromised PM" listens "like an obedient servant" and "complies with the orders".

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.

Abhay Singh, Velavan Senthilkumar Eye Asian Doubles Squash Title

Abhay Singh, Velavan Senthilkumar Eye Asian Doubles Squash Title

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Indian squash players Abhay Singh and Velavan Senthilkumar have reached the final of the third Asian Doubles Squash Championships in Sarawak, Malaysia, aiming to defend their title. Meanwhile, Joshna Chinappa and Rathika Seelan secured bronze in the women's doubles, and Joshna Chinappa also won bronze in mixed doubles with Velavan.

Mohun Bagan Deal Blow To India's Unity Cup Campaign

Mohun Bagan Deal Blow To India's Unity Cup Campaign

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Mohun Bagan Super Giant has withdrawn its players from the Indian football team's Unity Cup squad, citing concerns over injury compensation outside the FIFA international window, impacting India's preparations for the tournament.

NEET re-exam: HC seeks Centre's reply on Telegram ban

NEET re-exam: HC seeks Centre's reply on Telegram ban

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

The Delhi High Court has asked the Centre to respond to Telegram's petition challenging a temporary government order that restricts access to its platform and disables message-editing features in India, citing concerns over potential cheating during the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination.

Congress leader seeks privilege move against Rajnath over Operation Sindoor casualties

Congress leader seeks privilege move against Rajnath over Operation Sindoor casualties

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Congress leader K C Venugopal has written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, demanding privilege proceedings against Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for allegedly "misleading" Parliament regarding Indian soldier casualties post the Pahalgam terror attack and during Operation Sindoor.

The Aurangzeb You Never Knew

The Aurangzeb You Never Knew

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

As a ruler he was a pragmatist and adaptable, and trying all the time to strengthen and perpetuate the empire that he and his forefathers had built.He seldom, if ever, allowed his policies to be determined by his religious beliefs, notes Rudrangshu Mukherjee.

Shreyas Iyer rues middle-overs lapse after shock defeat to Ireland on captaincy debut

Shreyas Iyer rues middle-overs lapse after shock defeat to Ireland on captaincy debut

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

India skipper Shreyas Iyer said his bowlers had the Irish batters on tenterhooks early on but rued the lack of execution in the middle overs after the visitors suffered a shock 34-run defeat in the opening T20I in Belfast on Friday.

India's Football Team Suffers Defeat Against Jamaica In Unity Cup

India's Football Team Suffers Defeat Against Jamaica In Unity Cup

Rediff.com28 May 2026

The Indian men's national football team was defeated by Jamaica in the semifinal of the Unity Cup 2026, held in London. Jamaica will now proceed to the final, while India will compete for third place against Zimbabwe.

Gurpreet talks pressure of goalkeeping role

Gurpreet talks pressure of goalkeeping role

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

India's national football team goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu discusses the immense mental pressure of his position, the importance of resilience, and his admiration for Argentina's Emiliano Martinez. He also shares his predictions for the FIFA World Cup 2026, backing traditional powerhouses and hoping for an Asian team's strong performance.

India's Football Team Bows Out Of Unity Cup After Loss To Jamaica

India's Football Team Bows Out Of Unity Cup After Loss To Jamaica

Rediff.com28 May 2026

The Indian men's football team experienced a disappointing debut in the Unity Cup, losing 2-0 to Jamaica in the semi-finals held in London.

Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa Revive India's Hopes At Norway Chess

Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa Revive India's Hopes At Norway Chess

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

D Gukesh and R Praggnanandhaa secured important wins in Round 7 of the Norway Chess tournament, while Divya Deshmukh defeated Koneru Humpy, boosting India's chances in the competition.

Not true: WhatsApp denies popular figure username abuse amid govt scrutiny

Not true: WhatsApp denies popular figure username abuse amid govt scrutiny

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

WhatsApp has asserted that username reservation relating to well-known public figure names is restricted only to their legitimate account owners, and termed as "false" any claims that people are reserving popular or well-known usernames.

Exodus continues from AIADMK, 3 former ministers join Vijay's TVK

Exodus continues from AIADMK, 3 former ministers join Vijay's TVK

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Three former AIADMK ministers, Dr C Vijayabaskar, M R Vijayabaskar, and M S M Anandan, along with their supporters, have joined the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), prompting the DMK to label the move as 'washing machine' politics, referencing allegations of corruption against the defectors.

India U18 Hockey Team Holds Australia To Draw, Series Ends In Stalemate

India U18 Hockey Team Holds Australia To Draw, Series Ends In Stalemate

Rediff.com20 May 2026

The India U18 men's hockey team played out a 3-3 draw against Australia in the final match of their four-match series, resulting in a 1-1 series draw. Both the men's and women's U18 teams faced off against Australia in Bhopal.

Who is cricket's Federer? Sanju Samson has an answer

Who is cricket's Federer? Sanju Samson has an answer

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson drew parallels between cricket and tennis legends, comparing MS Dhoni to Roger Federer and Virat Kohli to Carlos Alcaraz. He also reflected on India's recent T20 World Cup victory, crediting the women's team for inspiring the men, and discussed the challenge posed by Australia. Former tennis player Rohan Bopanna shared his Wimbledon predictions and memories.

Alpha Review: Girls Just Wanna Have Guns!

Alpha Review: Girls Just Wanna Have Guns!

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Alpha is a botched up opportunity, rues Sukanya Verma.

From Ramayana to King: 20 Most Anticipated Indian Films Of 2026

From Ramayana to King: 20 Most Anticipated Indian Films Of 2026

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

From Ramayana Part 1 and Alpha to King and Toxic, here's why the next six months could be one of Indian cinema's most exciting line-ups in years.