News for 'First Ball'

India complete Zimbabwe clean sweep; Vaibhav shines

India complete Zimbabwe clean sweep; Vaibhav shines

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's remarkably adaptive 81 and an equally solid effort from bowlers led by pacer Mayank Yadav ensured India's smooth 35-run win over Zimbabwe in the third and final T20I

Szoboszlai Penalty Earns Liverpool Dramatic Draw With Newcastle

Szoboszlai Penalty Earns Liverpool Dramatic Draw With Newcastle

Rediff.com6 days ago

Liverpool secured a dramatic 2-2 draw against Newcastle United at St James' Park, with Dominik Szoboszlai converting a stoppage-time penalty. The match also served as a tribute to the late Kevin Keegan, a shared hero for both clubs, with fans and former players honouring his legacy. Goals from Anthony Elanga and Joe Willock for Newcastle were cancelled out by Cody Gakpo and Szoboszlai's late equaliser for Liverpool.

'Attack Him': Harbhajan On How Bowlers Can Stop Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

'Attack Him': Harbhajan On How Bowlers Can Stop Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

India spin legend Harbhajan Singh has lauded 15-year-old cricket prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, calling his audacious strokeplay unparalleled.

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.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi hits two sixes before early dismissal on T20I debut

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi hits two sixes before early dismissal on T20I debut

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi batted in his inimitable style before being dismissed for 14 off 10 balls on his international debut in the Twenty20 International match against England on Saturday.

Can HIL do for hockey what IPL did for cricket?

Can HIL do for hockey what IPL did for cricket?

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Former Australian hockey legend Jamie Dwyer believes the Indian team possesses the talent and infrastructure to become a dominant force in world hockey but stresses that 'they need to maintain consistency as a team' to realise their true potential.

'Saransh Can Be Top Off-Spinner': Harbhajan

'Saransh Can Be Top Off-Spinner': Harbhajan

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

'Saransh is a very keen observer, he wants to keep learning.' 'He has the skills to be a top off-spinner, the way he releases the ball that is very good.' 'He is also mentally tough because he has played so much of domestic cricket.'

My Dear Friend Garry Sobers

My Dear Friend Garry Sobers

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Sir Garfield Sobers, who passed into the ages on July 17, would have turned 90 today, July 28. Former Pakistan captain Intikhab Alam remembers a dear friend who he believes was 'undoubtedly the greatest cricketer the world has ever seen.'

Hockey World Cup: India rout Pakistan to finish second in Pool D, stay in semi race

Hockey World Cup: India rout Pakistan to finish second in Pool D, stay in semi race

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Skipper Harmanpreet Singh and Abhishek scored a brace each to help India beat arch-rivals Pakistan 5-3 in their final Pool D match of the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup in Amstelveen, the Netherlands, on Wednesday.

Jos Buttler tips Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to break his record for most T20 runs

Jos Buttler tips Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to break his record for most T20 runs

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Jos Buttler goes past Kieron Pollard to become the highest run-getter T20s during the Men's Hundred match between Manchester Super Giants' (MSG) match against Welsh Fire.

Manchester City's new head coach Maresca faces a monumental EPL challenge

Manchester City's new head coach Maresca faces a monumental EPL challenge

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Manchester City enter a challenging post-Guardiola era, with Enzo Maresca tasked with preserving their dominance, managing squad changes and meeting immense expectations in a fiercely competitive Premier League.

1st T20I: Skipper Shreyas Iyer opens account with crushing victory over Zimbabwe

1st T20I: Skipper Shreyas Iyer opens account with crushing victory over Zimbabwe

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

India captain Shreyas Iyer hailed his bowlers for making the most of the lively conditions here on Thursday and said the comprehensive victory over Zimbabwe in the opening T20I would give his side the confidence it needs for the remainder of the series.

Toxic Review: All Yash, No Glory

Toxic Review: All Yash, No Glory

Rediff.com4 days ago

Purely relying on Yash's aura to the point of draining him dry, Toxic doesn't have an smidgen of storytelling in its body rolling in sex, shock and sounds of bullets fired at anyone and everyone.

Sahal Abdul Samad's Hat-Trick Powers Mohun Bagan To Big Win In Durand Cup

Sahal Abdul Samad's Hat-Trick Powers Mohun Bagan To Big Win In Durand Cup

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Mohun Bagan Super Giant secured a dominant 6-0 victory over CISF Protectors in the 135th Durand Cup, with Sahal Abdul Samad scoring a first-half hat-trick.

'What Is Wrong With Gill?' Fans Slam India Captain

'What Is Wrong With Gill?' Fans Slam India Captain

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Devdutt Padikkal and KL Rahul performed well, but India captain Shubman Gill had a disappointing outing, getting dismissed for 16 runs. His dismissal, attempting a lofted shot against Prabath Jayasuriya on a flat pitch, led to significant criticism from fans on social media, who questioned his shot selection and recent form.

We're taking shape as Test team, but need to turn it into a performance: Gary Kirsten

We're taking shape as Test team, but need to turn it into a performance: Gary Kirsten

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Sri Lanka's head coach Gary Kirsten expressed satisfaction with his team's developing approach to Test cricket despite a loss to India. He highlighted the team's fight and resilience, particularly after a poor start in their first innings, and praised young batter Sonal Dinusha. Kirsten also provided an update on key player injuries ahead of the next Test.

Hazlewood joins Australia's Test greats with milestone

Hazlewood joins Australia's Test greats with milestone

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has become the ninth Australian bowler to take 300 Test wickets, achieving the milestone during the first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin with his 14th career five-wicket haul.

Indian Navy sink NEROCA to stay alive in Durand Cup

Indian Navy sink NEROCA to stay alive in Durand Cup

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

The Indian Navy football team secured their first victory in the Durand Cup, defeating NEROCA FC 2-0 in a Group D fixture. Goals from Roshan Panna and E Muhammed Inayath sealed the win, moving the Navy to second place in their group.

Winning A Lord's Test Is Like Climbing Everest For The First Time

Winning A Lord's Test Is Like Climbing Everest For The First Time

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

For Team India's women cricketers, producing such a feat at Lord's -- the Home of Cricket -- will remain an achievement that can be recalled again and again with pride, notes K R Nayar.

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.

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

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

Rediff.com6 days ago

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.

Bethell spoils Sooryavanshi's big day as England edge out India

Bethell spoils Sooryavanshi's big day as England edge out India

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Jacob Bethell guided England to an impressive four-wicket victory in the second T20 against England on Saturday as 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi made his eagerly-awaited India debut at Old Trafford.

Kusal Mendis leads big move by Sri Lanka cricketers

Kusal Mendis leads big move by Sri Lanka cricketers

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

The World Cricketers' Association has lauded the formation of the Sri Lankan Professional Cricketers' Association, a significant step for the game's professionalism and growth in the country. Led by white-ball captain Kusal Mendis, this new body aims to provide players with a stronger voice, particularly in negotiations regarding franchise cricket, and aligns with ongoing reforms in Sri Lanka Cricket.

Why KL Rahul's Galle 50 could change everything

Why KL Rahul's Galle 50 could change everything

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

KL Rahul's patient half-century in the Galle Test against Sri Lanka highlights his evolving role as a consistent and strategic anchor for the Indian team. Despite a slower strike rate, his ability to stonewall spinners and build partnerships has been crucial, earning praise from coaches and teammates. This performance underscores his growing importance, especially after the departure of senior batters, as he aims to make a significant impact in the current Test series.

Manzambi's magic sends Switzerland to first World Cup knockout win in 88 years

Manzambi's magic sends Switzerland to first World Cup knockout win in 88 years

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Johan Manzambi continued his superb FIFA World Cup campaign by setting up Switzerland's opener in a 2-0 win over Algeria, ending the Swiss side's 88-year wait for a World Cup knockout victory and securing a place in the Round of 16.

Will Gill be ready for 1st Test vs Sri Lanka? Big update

Will Gill be ready for 1st Test vs Sri Lanka? Big update

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Indian spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule confirmed that captain Shubman Gill is fully prepared for the first Test against Sri Lanka, despite missing the initial days of the warm-up match due to a finger injury. Gill returned to score a quick 44, easing concerns and setting the stage for the upcoming two-match series.

Indian eves secure Hockey World Cup second round spot after goalless draw with England

Indian eves secure Hockey World Cup second round spot after goalless draw with England

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The Indian women's hockey team advanced to the second round of the FIH World Cup after a goalless draw against England in their final Pool D match. Despite a challenging performance and facing numerous penalty corners, India's goalkeepers played a crucial role in preserving the draw and securing qualification.

'Dream come true': India's hockey debutants open up

'Dream come true': India's hockey debutants open up

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Five young Indian women's hockey players - Ishika, Lalthantluangi, Sakshi Rana, Shilpi Dabas, and Sunelita Toppo - are set to make their World Cup debut, having overcome various challenges and long waits to reach this significant milestone.

Ponting Shocked, Hayden Labels Australia's Loss 'Embarrassing'

Ponting Shocked, Hayden Labels Australia's Loss 'Embarrassing'

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Bangladesh secured a historic nine-wicket victory over Australia in Darwin, marking their first-ever Test win on Australian soil and stunning the No. 1-ranked Test side.

'K L Rahul better off without captaincy'

'K L Rahul better off without captaincy'

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Former India opener Wasim Jaffer believes K L Rahul performs best when not burdened by captaincy.

Faster than Don Bradman: Virat Kohli's Record-Breaking 18 Years For India

Faster than Don Bradman: Virat Kohli's Record-Breaking 18 Years For India

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Virat Kohli, who debuted 18 years ago, has amassed over 28,000 international runs and 85 centuries, establishing himself as one of cricket's all-time greats with numerous unmatched records across all formats.

Women's Sports See Record Viewership, Sponsorship Growth in US

Women's Sports See Record Viewership, Sponsorship Growth in US

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Women's sports garnered 28.6 billion minutes of views in the U.S. in the first half of 2026, an 18% increase year-over-year, with advertising spend up 120% since 2022, according to a Nielsen report.

Should Sarfaraz Khan Make India's Playing XI at Galle?

Should Sarfaraz Khan Make India's Playing XI at Galle?

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

As India prepares for their two-match Test series against Sri Lanka starting August 15, the team management faces critical decisions regarding their playing XI to bolster their World Test Championship 2027 final aspirations.

Hockey World Cup: India face stern test against Olympic champions Netherlands

Hockey World Cup: India face stern test against Olympic champions Netherlands

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

India faces a critical challenge against co-hosts and reigning Olympic champions the Netherlands in their Hockey World Cup second-round opener.

Iga Swiatek beats Rybakina to win Canadian Open title

Iga Swiatek beats Rybakina to win Canadian Open title

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Iga Swiatek defeated Elena Rybakina 6-2, 6-3 to win her first title of the season at the Canadian Open. The victory provides a significant confidence boost for Swiatek ahead of the US Open.

Hockey World Cup: Coach Fulton highlights defensive woes after England defeat

Hockey World Cup: Coach Fulton highlights defensive woes after England defeat

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

India's men's hockey team suffered a 4-2 defeat against England in their second Hockey World Cup pool match, with head coach Craig Fulton and player Manpreet Singh attributing the loss to defensive lapses, particularly in the third quarter. The team now faces a crucial match against arch-rivals Pakistan, needing to improve their defensive discipline and penalty corner conversion.

First Day In India Blue! Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Carries Drinks

First Day In India Blue! Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Carries Drinks

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, a 15-year-old cricket prodigy, joined the senior Indian team for the first T20I against Ireland but did not make his debut.

India call up spin quartet to nets ahead of Sri Lanka Tests

India call up spin quartet to nets ahead of Sri Lanka Tests

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Team India has brought in four young Indian spinners - Harsh Dubey, Shivang Kumar, Tanush Kotian, and Vipraj Nigam - to assist in net practice ahead of their two-Test series against Sri Lanka, despite already having four spinners in their main squad.

'More focused on money': Ex-Pakistan selector slams players

'More focused on money': Ex-Pakistan selector slams players

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Former Pakistan Test spinner and chief selector Iqbal Qasim has criticised the current generation of Pakistani cricketers for prioritising financial gain, particularly through leagues like the PSL, over dedicated skill development and game awareness, attributing this to a lack of vision among selectors and a general disinterest among young players.

Clarity in approach, hunger for big runs key to maiden Test century: Devdutt Padikkal

Clarity in approach, hunger for big runs key to maiden Test century: Devdutt Padikkal

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Devdutt Padikkal scored his maiden Test hundred against Sri Lanka, attributing his success to a clear strategy against spin and a strong desire to convert big scores. He focused on developing specific plans for bowlers and maintaining full commitment to every shot, while also emphasising the importance of staying focused after reaching a century.