News for 'Elite Group'

FIFA World Cup 2026: Why Spain is a threat against Saudi Arabia

FIFA World Cup 2026: Why Spain is a threat against Saudi Arabia

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

A champions' mentality, a new generation of fearless players are some of the qualities that will have Saudi Arabia wary of the former champions in their upcoming Group H match on Sunday.

Ian Bishop flags structural flaws after India Women's early exit from T20 World Cup

Ian Bishop flags structural flaws after India Women's early exit from T20 World Cup

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Indian women's cricket ecosystem will have to develop more fast bowlers and wrist spinners through the Women's Premier League (WPL) in order to garner success in the shortest format on global stage, said former West Indies pacer Ian Bishop on Monday.

How Hydration Breaks Are Reshaping Tactics at the 2026 World Cup

How Hydration Breaks Are Reshaping Tactics at the 2026 World Cup

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

FIFA's new hydration breaks at the 2026 World Cup have sparked controversy, with coaches including Marcelo Bielsa and Gustavo Alfaro claiming they disrupt football's rhythm and serve commercial interests more than player welfare.

Brazil romp into World Cup knock-outs after Vinicius brace

Brazil romp into World Cup knock-outs after Vinicius brace

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Brazil secured their spot in the World Cup knockout stages with a dominant 3-0 victory over Scotland. Vinicius Jr scored twice, continuing his impressive form, while Neymar made his much-anticipated return to the national team after nearly three years. The win saw Brazil top Group C, with Matheus Cunha also contributing a goal. Scotland's hopes now rest on qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams.

Kohli-Anushka Celebrate IPL Win With The Birlas

Kohli-Anushka Celebrate IPL Win With The Birlas

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Virat Kohli and wife Anushka Sharma celebrated Royal Challengers Bengaluru's IPL 2026 title triumph with the team's new owners Kumar Mangalam Birla and his family.

Iran to play FIFA World Cup warm-up games behind closed doors

Iran to play FIFA World Cup warm-up games behind closed doors

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Iran will play their final World Cup warm-up behind closed doors in Turkey on Thursday before departing for their tournament base in Mexico on Saturday.

India enters elite group with Star Wars-style laser weapon for drones

India enters elite group with Star Wars-style laser weapon for drones

Rediff.com13 Apr 2025

Success has put India in the exclusive and limited club of nations that possess the high-power Laser-DEW.

UNICEF hands Goodwill Ambassador role to Spain's rising star Lamine Yamal

UNICEF hands Goodwill Ambassador role to Spain's rising star Lamine Yamal

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Spain winger Lamine Yamal has been appointed as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, becoming one of the youngest footballers to take on the global role ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Two CoBRA battalions deployed to Manipur to address ethnic violence

Two CoBRA battalions deployed to Manipur to address ethnic violence

Rediff.com31 May 2026

The Indian government has deployed two battalions of the CRPF's CoBRA unit to Manipur to help restore peace in the region, which has been affected by ethnic violence.

17-Year-Old vs 43-Year-Old in 2026 FIFA World Cup Face-Off

17-Year-Old vs 43-Year-Old in 2026 FIFA World Cup Face-Off

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to feature a significant generational divide, with players spanning over 25 years in age. Mexico's Gilberto Mora, 17, will be the youngest, while Scotland's Craig Gordon, 43, will be the oldest. The tournament will showcase a mix of emerging talents and seasoned veterans like Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric, with nations like Panama and Ivory Coast representing the oldest and youngest average squads, respectively.

Why Mexicans Feel Left Out of Their Own World Cup After 40 Years

Why Mexicans Feel Left Out of Their Own World Cup After 40 Years

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Despite the World Cup returning to their country for the first time in four decades, many in Mexico said they feel excluded, priced out of stadiums, forced to pay for expensive TV subscriptions and constrained by strict licensing rules.

India's Anti-Doping Fight Gets Boost From Neeraj Chopra

India's Anti-Doping Fight Gets Boost From Neeraj Chopra

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra has partnered with the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to launch a "Clean Sports Campaign" aimed at combating doping in India. This initiative comes as India faces a serious doping problem, topping WADA's list of offenders, and seeks to educate athletes on anti-doping regulations and promote fair play. Chopra emphasised the importance of patience over quick gains through doping, highlighting the long-term damage it causes to athletes and the nation's sporting image.

Will Cocktail 2 Be Better Than Cocktail?: Ranking Homi Adajania's Films

Will Cocktail 2 Be Better Than Cocktail?: Ranking Homi Adajania's Films

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

As Cocktail 2 approaches, we take a look at Director Homi Adajania's slim but fascinating filmography.

Why India's Football Is Relegated To AFC Challenge League

Why India's Football Is Relegated To AFC Challenge League

Rediff.com22 May 2026

India's football faces a setback as it receives only one play-off slot for the 2027-28 AFC Challenge League, the third tier of Asia's club structure, due to administrative issues and declining performance.

Hyderabad Police Busts International 'OG Ganja' Smuggling Network

Hyderabad Police Busts International 'OG Ganja' Smuggling Network

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Telangana's EAGLE Force, in coordination with Customs and NCB, has dismantled an international 'OG Ganja' smuggling ring operating between Bangkok and India. The operation led to the arrest of a woman junior artist and the seizure of 2.15 kg of cannabis, exposing a larger syndicate that exploits vulnerable women as drug carriers.

Why India Needs A Cultural Shift To Become A Sporting Superpower

Why India Needs A Cultural Shift To Become A Sporting Superpower

Rediff.com20 May 2026

An analysis of the disparities in India's sporting culture, highlighting the challenges faced by non-cricket athletes and the systemic changes needed for India to become a true sporting superpower.

Shardul, Jaiswal back in Mumbai squad for Ranji quarters

Shardul, Jaiswal back in Mumbai squad for Ranji quarters

Rediff.com2 Feb 2026

Shardul Thakur and Yashasvi Jaiswal return to Mumbai's squad for the Ranji Trophy quarterfinal against Karnataka from February 6 to 10, at MCA-BKC Ground.

Scorching US Summer Could Disrupt FIFA World Cup 2026

Scorching US Summer Could Disrupt FIFA World Cup 2026

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Climate change has increased the likelihood of temperatures high enough to affect player performance at 97 of the 104 tournament matches.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi reminds coach Bharucha of young Sachin Tendulkar

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi reminds coach Bharucha of young Sachin Tendulkar

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's coach, Zubin Bharucha, sees similarities between the young cricketer and a young Sachin Tendulkar, highlighting Sooryavanshi's ability to grow, his bat speed development, and his maturity and clarity.

Telangana Anti-Narcotics Unit Seizes 450 Kg Of Ganja, Arrests Five

Telangana Anti-Narcotics Unit Seizes 450 Kg Of Ganja, Arrests Five

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Telangana's anti-narcotics unit 'EAGLE' Force arrested five persons and seized 450 kg of ganja in two separate cases in Khammam and Yadadri Bhuvanagiri districts.

Rybakina routs Muchova to win Stuttgart Open - and a Porsche

Rybakina routs Muchova to win Stuttgart Open - and a Porsche

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

Elena Rybakina defeated Karolina Muchova to win the Stuttgart Open, securing her second title of the season and driving away with a Porsche car.

A star is born! Mirra Andreeva comes of age with Grand Slam crown

A star is born! Mirra Andreeva comes of age with Grand Slam crown

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

Mirra Andreeva announced herself as the latest member of women's tennis's elite on Saturday, defeating surprise finalist Maja Chwalinska to become the youngest French Open champion in more than three decades.

India to join elite group of nations in space tech

India to join elite group of nations in space tech

Rediff.com9 Jan 2007

The T-52 hour countdown for the launch of the PSLV-C7 began at 0548 hours on Monday, and it was progessing smoothly.

Indian Boxers Gear Up For Asian U15 & U17 Championships

Indian Boxers Gear Up For Asian U15 & U17 Championships

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

A 56-member Indian boxing contingent is set to compete at the Asian Boxing U15 & U17 Championships 2026 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, starting Friday.

Indian Origin Golfers To Feature At PGA Championship

Indian Origin Golfers To Feature At PGA Championship

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Akshay Bhatia, Sahith Theegala, Aaron Rai and Sudarshan Yellamaraju will represent Indian talent at the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club. These rising stars are poised to make a significant impact, while top contenders like Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy also vie for the Wanamaker Trophy.

Growing Talent Pool In Indian Junior Women's Hockey Praised

Growing Talent Pool In Indian Junior Women's Hockey Praised

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Indian junior women's hockey team head coach Tim White has lauded the growing talent pool in the country's age-group national pathway during his scouting visit to the ongoing India-Australia U-18 exposure series in Bhopal. White emphasised the importance of building a strong connection between the youth tiers and the senior national team, aiming to develop players ready for world-class performance.

FIFA Confident Of Iran's World Cup Participation After 'Positive Meeting'

FIFA Confident Of Iran's World Cup Participation After 'Positive Meeting'

Rediff.com17 May 2026

FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom expressed confidence in Iran's participation in the upcoming World Cup after a meeting with Iran's FA President Mehdi Taj, despite concerns over visa issues and political tensions.

FIFA To Offer Reassurance To Iran Over World Cup Participation

FIFA To Offer Reassurance To Iran Over World Cup Participation

Rediff.com16 May 2026

FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafstrom will meet Iranian FA officials in Istanbul to offer reassurance over Iran's participation in the World Cup, amidst concerns raised by recent geopolitical tensions and visa issues.

Ronaldo judged on form not age, says head coach Martinez as Portugal weigh World Cup role

Ronaldo judged on form not age, says head coach Martinez as Portugal weigh World Cup role

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo is 41, but Portugal coach Roberto Martinez said age is only a number and that his captain is judged on current form and by the same standards as everyone else.

IPL 2026: SRH vs KKR: Raghuvanshi steals show as KKR crush SRH

IPL 2026: SRH vs KKR: Raghuvanshi steals show as KKR crush SRH

Rediff.com3 May 2026

Kolkata Knight Riders ended Sunrisers Hyderabad's five-match winning streak with a dominant seven-wicket win in Hyderabad, powered by a clinical bowling display and a composed chase led by Angkrish Raghuvanshi.

How RCB Went From Nearly Men To IPL's New Dynasty

How RCB Went From Nearly Men To IPL's New Dynasty

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

How Andy Flower, Mo Bobat, Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli transformed Royal Challengers Bengaluru from IPL underachievers into back-to-back champions and potential dynasty builders.

IPL 2026 Dream XI: Sooryavanshi Opener; Patidar Captain

IPL 2026 Dream XI: Sooryavanshi Opener; Patidar Captain

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi stole the limelight in his first full season of IPL with some dazzling performances for the Rajasthan Royals.

How Kapil Dev Is Transforming Indian Golf

How Kapil Dev Is Transforming Indian Golf

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Kapil Dev's efforts to attract sponsors and increase prize money in Indian golf are creating better opportunities for players to qualify for the Olympics and compete globally, according to DP World PGTI CEO Amandeep Johl.

Telangana Police To Collaborate To Eradicate Drug Menace

Telangana Police To Collaborate To Eradicate Drug Menace

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Telangana's DGP C V Anand has directed the police force to collaborate and intensify efforts to eradicate drug trafficking in the state. The focus will be on advanced technology, tracing financial trails, and crushing foreign syndicates. The DGP also highlighted the need for educational institutions to take responsibility and report drug-related incidents.

Ranji Trophy: Champions Vidarbha knocked out; Andhra, Jharkhand in quarters

Ranji Trophy: Champions Vidarbha knocked out; Andhra, Jharkhand in quarters

Rediff.com1 Feb 2026

Vidarbha failed to advance on basis of the bonus points after it finished level on points with Andhra and Jharkhand.

FIFA under fire as 2026 World Cup heat risk grows

FIFA under fire as 2026 World Cup heat risk grows

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Football's global players' union has renewed concerns about the potential impact of heat on the 2026 World Cup, following a scientific analysis indicating a high likelihood of dangerous temperatures for both players and fans.

WADA rule puts Vinesh Phogat comeback in trouble!

WADA rule puts Vinesh Phogat comeback in trouble!

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Vinesh Phogat's eligibility to compete in the National Open Ranking Tournament is uncertain due to questions about her compliance with WADA's six-month notice rule for returning athletes.

Theegala, Bhatia Hope To Shine At Cadillac Championship

Theegala, Bhatia Hope To Shine At Cadillac Championship

Rediff.com30 Apr 2026

Sahith Theegala and Akshay Bhatia are set to compete at the Cadillac Championship, held at the Trump National Doral Golf Club. The tournament, a USD 20m Signature Event, features a strong field, though Rory McIlroy will be absent.

Carlo Ancelotti To Manage Brazil Until 2030 World Cup

Carlo Ancelotti To Manage Brazil Until 2030 World Cup

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Carlo Ancelotti has extended his contract as the manager of the Brazilian national football team until the 2030 World Cup.

Government to Revamp TOPS Scheme with Focus on High-Yielding Sports

Government to Revamp TOPS Scheme with Focus on High-Yielding Sports

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

The Indian government is set to revamp its Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), focusing on quarterly athlete evaluations and prioritising high medal-yielding sports like aquatics and cycling to improve performance at the Olympic Games.