News for 'Defending India'

Harmanpreet retained as captain for Asian Games despite T20 World Cup debacle

Harmanpreet retained as captain for Asian Games despite T20 World Cup debacle

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Harmanpreet Kaur was on Tuesday retained as captain of a largely predictable 15-member India squad for this year's Asian Games in Japan.

Women's Hockey Squad Announced For Asian Games With Olympic Dream

Women's Hockey Squad Announced For Asian Games With Olympic Dream

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

India has announced its 20-member women's hockey squad for the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. Led by Salima Tete, the team aims to secure a gold medal, which would qualify them for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The squad features a mix of experienced players and promising juniors, with minor changes from the recent FIH Nations Cup-winning team.

India to battle defending champions China in 2026 Thomas and Uber Cup

India to battle defending champions China in 2026 Thomas and Uber Cup

Rediff.com18 Mar 2026

India's men's and women's badminton teams face a challenging draw alongside defending champions China in the 2026 Thomas and Uber Cup, to be held in Horsens, Denmark.

Abhijeet Gupta Crowned Champion At Pune International Chess Tournament

Abhijeet Gupta Crowned Champion At Pune International Chess Tournament

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Grandmaster Abhijeet Gupta secured the championship at the Pune International Grandmaster Round Robin Chess Tournament. International Master Aswath S finished as runner-up, achieving his final Grandmaster norm to become India's 98th Grandmaster. Kushagra Mohan took third place, while Advik Agarwal earned his second International Master norm.

Birthday Special: Dhanush's 10 Best Films

Birthday Special: Dhanush's 10 Best Films

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

From intense gangster epics to tender slice-of-life dramas, these 10 films showcase why Dhanush remains one of Indian cinema's most versatile leading men.

Kunal Kamra defends satire, cites Bal Thackeray in privilege case

Kunal Kamra defends satire, cites Bal Thackeray in privilege case

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

Stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra, facing a breach of privilege notice for satirising Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, defends his actions by referencing Bal Thackeray's history of political cartoons and arguing for the protection of free speech and satire.

Modi meets Trump in France, discusses seafarers' safety, Iran deal

Modi meets Trump in France, discusses seafarers' safety, Iran deal

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged US President Donald Trump to prioritise the safety of Indian seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz during the implementation of Washington's proposed Iran peace deal, as both leaders focused on repairing strained bilateral relations at the G7 summit.

Shreyas Iyer Refuses To Blame Ravi Bishnoi For England T20I Defeat

Shreyas Iyer Refuses To Blame Ravi Bishnoi For England T20I Defeat

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

India captain Shreyas Iyer defended leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi after his expensive 29-run over proved pivotal in India's four-wicket defeat to England in the second T20I. Iyer acknowledged the momentum shift but refused to pinpoint blame, while England's Jacob Bethell was lauded for his match-winning unbeaten 76.

'Spain Will Win FIFA World Cup'

'Spain Will Win FIFA World Cup'

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Former India captain Climax Lawrence has predicted Spain to lift the FIFA World Cup, praising their tactical discipline and fitness.

Expanded World Cup boosts India's qualification hopes: Bhutia

Expanded World Cup boosts India's qualification hopes: Bhutia

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia says FIFA's expanded 48-team World Cup format significantly improves India's chances of qualification while creating new opportunities for emerging football nations across Asia and beyond.

India Finalises Squad For SAFF Women's Championship 2026

India Finalises Squad For SAFF Women's Championship 2026

Rediff.com23 May 2026

India has announced its 23-member squad for the SAFF Women's Championship 2026, set to take place in Goa. The team will compete against Maldives and Bangladesh in Group B, with the top two teams advancing to the semi-finals.

Tete To Lead India At FIH Hockey Women's Nations Cup

Tete To Lead India At FIH Hockey Women's Nations Cup

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

India's women's hockey team, led by Salima Tete, is set to participate in the FIH Hockey Women's Nations Cup in Auckland, New Zealand. The squad blends experienced players with emerging talents, aiming to build on recent preparations and set a high standard for future tournaments.

SAFF Women's C'ship: India edge Bhutan to set up title clash with Bangladesh

SAFF Women's C'ship: India edge Bhutan to set up title clash with Bangladesh

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Five-time champions India booked their place in the final of the SAFF Women's Championship with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over a resolute Bhutan in the second semifinal in Margao on Wednesday.

Did Kangana Really Make Vir Das' Lips Bleed During Kiss?

Did Kangana Really Make Vir Das' Lips Bleed During Kiss?

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

'This is unfair slander to Kangana.'

'Rajnath knew the truth yet...': Cong on Op Sindoor soldiers' deaths

'Rajnath knew the truth yet...': Cong on Op Sindoor soldiers' deaths

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

The Congress party has accused the government of concealing the supreme sacrifice of six soldiers during Operation Sindoor, thereby denying them honour and recognition. Congress leader Pawan Khera questioned Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's statement in Parliament, suggesting he either lacked knowledge or misled the House. The Defence Ministry, however, refuted these claims, stating that social media posts selectively quoted the minister's remarks to misrepresent the facts.

'India are favourites for T20 World Cup': Jemimah

'India are favourites for T20 World Cup': Jemimah

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

India are not lacking in self-belief after their historic women's ODI World Cup triumph last year and they are the "favourites" to win the upcoming T20 World Cup in England, says star batter Jemimah Rodrigues.

Moments That Defined 2026 World Cup

Moments That Defined 2026 World Cup

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

From Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo to Cape Verde's fairytale run, VAR controversies and unforgettable fan moments, relive the memories that made the 2026 FIFA World Cup the biggest and most dramatic tournament in history.

No rollback of E20 petrol, no selling pure petrol: Govt

No rollback of E20 petrol, no selling pure petrol: Govt

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

It, however, conceded that 20 per cent blending of ethanol with petrol leads to 3-5 per cent lower mileage in vehicles than conventional petrol, but said the blend offers a significantly higher octane rating, superior anti-knock properties, faster combustion, better pickup, smoother acceleration, and cleaner engine operation.

FIFA World Cup: Remember the name 'Cabo Verde'

FIFA World Cup: Remember the name 'Cabo Verde'

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Ravichandran Ashwin praised Cabo Verde on X, urging fans to "Remember the name" after their spirited performances.

Exiled author Taslima Nasrin to return to Kolkata after 20 years

Exiled author Taslima Nasrin to return to Kolkata after 20 years

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Exiled Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasrin is set to return to Kolkata next month for an anti-fundamentalism literary event, nearly two decades after she was forced to leave the city amid violent protests over her writings. The BJP government in West Bengal is projecting this as a reversal of past capitulation to religious fundamentalism.

Why RBI Should Stop Defending Rupee

Why RBI Should Stop Defending Rupee

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

The measures announced by it risk backfiring, disrupting the foreign exchange market, and intensifying the very pressures they seek to contain, with broader consequences for the economy points out Rajeswari Sengupta.

East Bengal Appoints Antonio Lopez Habas As Head Coach

East Bengal Appoints Antonio Lopez Habas As Head Coach

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Reigning Indian Super League champions East Bengal have announced the appointment of decorated Spanish coach Antonio Lopez Habas as their new head coach for the 2026-27 season. Habas, known for his successful stints in Indian football, returns to familiar territory as the club prepares to defend its maiden ISL League Shield amidst ownership uncertainties.

Bhaichung Bhutia: Messi needs another World Cup to match Maradona's legacy

Bhaichung Bhutia: Messi needs another World Cup to match Maradona's legacy

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia believes Lionel Messi needs to win the 2026 World Cup to truly equal Diego Maradona's legendary status, despite Messi's 2022 triumph. Bhutia rates Maradona higher due to his single-handed 1986 World Cup victory, while also tipping Spain as slight favourites over Argentina in the upcoming final.

Praful Patel pooh-poohs secretary's letter, says no rift in NCP over Sunetra

Praful Patel pooh-poohs secretary's letter, says no rift in NCP over Sunetra

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Nationalist Congress Party national working president Praful Patel has dismissed claims of a rift within the party, specifically addressing a legal challenge to Sunetra Pawar's election as party president. A national secretary, Sachchidanand Singh, alleged the election was unconstitutional, but Patel stated the letter carries no weight and senior leaders support Sunetra Pawar. The dispute highlights internal dynamics following the demise of Ajit Pawar.

Abby Wilson Double Sinks India In Series Opener

Abby Wilson Double Sinks India In Series Opener

Rediff.com26 May 2026

The Indian women's hockey team suffered a 1-2 defeat to Australia in the opening friendly in Perth after surrendering an early lead despite Navneet Kaur's first-quarter goal.

Why India Are The Big Favourites To Win Women's T20 World Cup!

Why India Are The Big Favourites To Win Women's T20 World Cup!

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Former cricketer Reema Malhotra believes the Indian women's cricket team is a strong contender to win the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup, largely because of its strong spin bowling resources.

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 must focus on long-term growth, not short-term challenges: Citi CEO

India must focus on long-term growth, not short-term challenges: Citi CEO

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Despite current headwinds, India remains the world's fastest-growing major economy and should not allow near-term challenges to obscure its long-term growth potential, said Jane Fraser, Citi Chair and Chief Executive Officer.

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.

The Marriage Secret That Still Works!

The Marriage Secret That Still Works!

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Bhanu Iyer from Bengaluru tells us about the simple habits and values that helped her marriage celebrate 15 years.

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.

High Court To Rule On Asian Games Dressage Team Selection Dispute

High Court To Rule On Asian Games Dressage Team Selection Dispute

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

The Delhi High Court has reserved its verdict on petitions filed by riders Anush Agarwalla and Sudipti Hajela, who challenged their exclusion from India's dressage team for the upcoming Asian Games. The athletes appealed a single judge's earlier decision that upheld the Equestrian Federation of India's selection process. The court heard arguments from all parties, including the EFI, which maintained that the best riders were selected and opposed external interference.

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.

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.

Govt warns Meta over WhatsApp username feature, slaps notice

Govt warns Meta over WhatsApp username feature, slaps notice

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

The Indian government has issued a notice to Meta regarding WhatsApp's upcoming username feature, warning the platform not to roll it out until concerns about potential fraud, impersonation, and public safety are addressed to the government's satisfaction.

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.

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'.

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.

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.