News for 'First Ball'

'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.

Sobers' lucky charm? Gavaskar's shoulder, says Doshi

Sobers' lucky charm? Gavaskar's shoulder, says Doshi

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Former India spinner Dilip Doshi shared an amusing anecdote about West Indies legend Sir Garfield Sobers' superstition, revealing how Sobers believed touching Sunil Gavaskar's shoulder before batting would bring him fortune, leading to a witty intervention by India captain Ajit Wadekar.

Can Kuldeep Yadav Finally Turn The Tide in Sri Lanka?

Can Kuldeep Yadav Finally Turn The Tide in Sri Lanka?

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Kuldeep Yadav will look towards the Sri Lanka series as his big opportunity to finally seal his place as India's No 1 spinner in Tests.

Rybakina Edges Osaka in Epic Battle, Sets Up Gauff Semi-Final

Rybakina Edges Osaka in Epic Battle, Sets Up Gauff Semi-Final

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Elena Rybakina mounted a stunning comeback from a set and a break down to defeat Naomi Osaka in a hard-fought Canadian Open quarter-final, setting up a semi-final clash with Coco Gauff.

Shashank Singh Steps Up Bowling Work, Eyes India Call-Up

Shashank Singh Steps Up Bowling Work, Eyes India Call-Up

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Punjab Kings all-rounder Shashank Singh is intensifying his bowling practice and rebuilding his fielding confidence during the off-season camp, aiming for an India call-up by excelling in his all-rounder role in the upcoming domestic season.

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.

Shafique, Sajid put Pakistan on course for victory in 2nd Test

Shafique, Sajid put Pakistan on course for victory in 2nd Test

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Abdullah Shafique's unbeaten century and Sajid Khan's four-wicket haul have put Pakistan in a commanding position against West Indies on Day 3 of the second and final Test.

English Club Cricket Rocked by 'Finger-Clicking' Cheating Scandal

English Club Cricket Rocked by 'Finger-Clicking' Cheating Scandal

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

An English club cricket team, Saltburn Cricket Club second XI, is under investigation for alleged cheating after a slip fielder appeared to trick umpires by clicking his fingers to mimic an edge, leading to a batter being given out caught behind.

India batting coach names stars who impressed in warm-up

India batting coach names stars who impressed in warm-up

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak lauded the team's productive warm-up victory against Sri Lanka, highlighting strong performances from both batters and bowlers, including Shubman Gill's quick 44 and Devdutt Padikkal's unbeaten 142, which set a positive tone for the upcoming two-match Test series.

Roach Shines As West Indies Rout Sri Lanka In First Test

Roach Shines As West Indies Rout Sri Lanka In First Test

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Kemar Roach picked up four wickets as West Indies crushed Sri Lanka by an innings and 217 runs in the first Test on Sunday.

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.

BCCI Confirms Afghanistan T20 series In Delhi; India's Tour Of Bangladesh In Doubt

BCCI Confirms Afghanistan T20 series In Delhi; India's Tour Of Bangladesh In Doubt

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

The Afghanistan Cricket Board and the Board of Control for Cricket in India have confirmed that Afghanistan will host India for a three-match T20I series at the Arun Jaitley Cricket Stadium in Delhi next month.

Tilak Varma: 'My play is based on conditions and match situations'

Tilak Varma: 'My play is based on conditions and match situations'

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

India T20 vice-captain Tilak Varma stated that his batting approach is dictated by conditions and match situations, especially after the team's struggles with early wickets in the UK and Ireland. He emphasised the responsibility of playing for the country and adapting to overseas conditions after extensive play in Asia.

Why make Vaibhav Sooryavanshi vice-captain now? Bhogle questions

Why make Vaibhav Sooryavanshi vice-captain now? Bhogle questions

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Veteran commentator Harsha Bhogle has raised concerns over the appointment of 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as East Zone's vice-captain for the Duleep Trophy, citing his limited red-ball experience, while selectors defend the decision as a long-term learning opportunity.

Shelton storms into Canadian Open semis; Nakashima, Jodar in last four

Shelton storms into Canadian Open semis; Nakashima, Jodar in last four

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Ben Shelton, Learner Tien, Brandon Nakashima, and Rafael Jodar have all secured their spots in the Canadian Open semi-finals, showcasing strong performances and building momentum ahead of the US Open.

Farveez Maharoof: Gurnoor Brar could be India's 'X-Factor' in Sri Lanka Tests

Farveez Maharoof: Gurnoor Brar could be India's 'X-Factor' in Sri Lanka Tests

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Former Sri Lanka all-rounder Farveez Maharoof believes rookie pacer Gurnoor Brar could be the 'X-Factor' for India in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah during the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, suggesting he would be tempted to hand the 26-year-old his debut.

I would like to play for India in all formats: Ravichandran Smaran

I would like to play for India in all formats: Ravichandran Smaran

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Ravichandran Smaran, the highest run-scorer in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season, is focused on maintaining his form and securing a national call-up.

Unconventional Opener Travis Head Ready for India Test Challenge

Unconventional Opener Travis Head Ready for India Test Challenge

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

'We're going to play in a lot of different conditions over the next 12 months. It's going to require different efforts. It may not look like the traditional thing all the time.'

National Table Tennis Championships Kicks Off Amidst TTFI Suspension

National Table Tennis Championships Kicks Off Amidst TTFI Suspension

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

The UTT National Ranking Table Tennis Championships has commenced in Kanpur, featuring 1900 players across 12 categories, including top senior athletes. The tournament proceeds despite the Sports Ministry's recent suspension of the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) over election irregularities, with the TTFI asserting its autonomy.

Let Us Salute India's Complete Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja!

Let Us Salute India's Complete Cricketer Ravindra Jadeja!

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Ravindra Jadeja is a captain's delight and has delivered with the bat when needed most, destroyed batting line-ups, taken breathtaking catches and pulled off brilliant run-outs. His feats are an inspiration.

Morkel reveals KL Rahul's big role in Sri Lanka Test

Morkel reveals KL Rahul's big role in Sri Lanka Test

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

India's bowling coach Morne Morkel has emphasised the crucial role wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul will play in the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, citing his experience and ability to guide younger players.

Ajaraie's Hat-Trick Powers NorthEast United To Emphatic Durand Cup Victory

Ajaraie's Hat-Trick Powers NorthEast United To Emphatic Durand Cup Victory

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

Defending champions NorthEast United FC secured a resounding 6-0 victory over Bodoland FC in their opening Group F fixture of the 135th Durand Cup. Alaaeddine Ajaraie led the charge with a hat-trick, supported by goals from Lalrinzuala Lalbiaknia, Redeem Tlang, and Antonio Moyano, showcasing a commanding performance.

Australia meet Bangladesh in rare home winter Tests

Australia meet Bangladesh in rare home winter Tests

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Australia is set to host Bangladesh in a two-match Test series in the country's tropical north, marking the first time since 2003.

Warm-up Match: Sri Lanka XI Batters Make India Toil On Day 1

Warm-up Match: Sri Lanka XI Batters Make India Toil On Day 1

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Sri Lanka Cricket XI's batters made India's bowlers toil as they piled up 363/8 on Day 1 of the Warm-up match at the Nondescripts Cricket Club Ground in Colombo on Friday.

Ajinkya Rahane To Debut As Test Commentator For India-Sri Lanka Series

Ajinkya Rahane To Debut As Test Commentator For India-Sri Lanka Series

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Former India batter Ajinkya Rahane is set to begin his Test commentary career with the Sony Sports Network during India's upcoming two-match series in Sri Lanka.

PSG score over Aston Villa to retain UEFA Super Cup

PSG score over Aston Villa to retain UEFA Super Cup

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Paris St Germain defeated Aston Villa 2-1 to retain the UEFA Super Cup, with goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue. Despite Brian Madjo's equaliser for Villa, PSG secured their victory, marking another trophy for manager Luis Enrique and highlighting their continued dominance in European football.

'Remember Kambli, Shaw': Uthappa warns Sooryavanshi

'Remember Kambli, Shaw': Uthappa warns Sooryavanshi

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa believes teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has the potential to make a bigger impact on white-ball cricket than Sachin Tendulkar, but stresses that his future hinges on proper management and a strong support system, citing examples like Vinod Kambli and Prithvi Shaw.

'Can't play forever': Rohit's 2027 World Cup future in doubt

'Can't play forever': Rohit's 2027 World Cup future in doubt

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden has commented on Rohit Sharma's future in international cricket, particularly concerning the 2027 World Cup. Hayden believes Sharma's decision will hinge on his continued hunger and energy, given his retirement from Tests and T20Is, and the demanding schedule of both IPL and ODI cricket. Despite age-related questions, Sharma has continued to deliver strong performances, notably a century against England.

Recipe: Mayuri's Sarvapindi

Recipe: Mayuri's Sarvapindi

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Sarvapindi is one of Telangana's most loved traditional snacks, celebrated for its crisp edges, soft centre and wholesome ingredients.

Ireland pacer Jai Moondra's unconventional path to international cricket stardom

Ireland pacer Jai Moondra's unconventional path to international cricket stardom

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Jai Moondra, a left-arm medium pacer from Rajasthan, made a dream international debut for Ireland, taking a wicket with his first ball against India. His journey is remarkable, having left a secure corporate job at Intel after pursuing an MTech in Dublin to chase his cricketing dream, culminating in a historic victory for Ireland.

England Star Jason Roy Set To Shine In European T20 Premier League

England Star Jason Roy Set To Shine In European T20 Premier League

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Veteran England opener Jason Roy has signed with Glasgow Cosmic for the inaugural European T20 Premier League, bringing his aggressive batting and extensive experience to the new franchise.

What Makes Padikkal's Test Ton So Special?

What Makes Padikkal's Test Ton So Special?

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

A maiden Test century is never just about three figures. It is a reflection of patience, perseverance, self-belief and the courage to wait for the right moment.

How Auqib Nabi Made It To Team India

How Auqib Nabi Made It To Team India

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Auqib Nabi proved unstoppable with the ball last season -- picking up 60 wickets in 10 matches at an incredible average of 12.56 last season to help J&K script history by winning its first Ranji Trophy title.

The Ajinkya Rahane You Must Know

The Ajinkya Rahane You Must Know

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

'While his cricketing achievements are obvious, people should remember Ajinkya Rahane, the person. Because he has inspired youngsters in the dressing room by his powerful humane gestures.'

1st T20I: Sooryavanshi becomes youngest batter to score T20I fifty

1st T20I: Sooryavanshi becomes youngest batter to score T20I fifty

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi announced himself on the international stage in spectacular fashion, becoming the youngest batter to score a T20I half-century with a stunning 18-ball fifty against Zimbabwe in the first T20I in Harare on Thursday.

Babar reveals what went wrong for Pakistan vs West Indies

Babar reveals what went wrong for Pakistan vs West Indies

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Pakistan captain Babar Azam confirmed that Shan Masood fractured his finger during the first ICC World Test Championship match against the West Indies, contributing to Pakistan's 90-run defeat. The injury forced Masood to bat at No. 8, and Babar highlighted the team's top-order batting failures and lack of partnerships. West Indies' Justin Greaves was named Player of the Match for his five-wicket haul.

'If Rohit, Kohli score runs why should we look at their age?': Harbhajan

'If Rohit, Kohli score runs why should we look at their age?': Harbhajan

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has voiced strong support for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, emphasising that performance, not age, should be the primary criterion for selection.

'Sanju, Sooryavanshi Is Waiting In The Wings'

'Sanju, Sooryavanshi Is Waiting In The Wings'

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

'Sanju Samson is back to his normal stuff of being an inconsistent batter.'

FIH Women's Hockey World Cup: India crush South Africa, stay in Round 2 hunt

FIH Women's Hockey World Cup: India crush South Africa, stay in Round 2 hunt

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

India's women's hockey team delivered a dominant performance, defeating South Africa 6-1 in their second Pool D match of the FIH Women's Hockey World Cup. Six different players scored for India, with a prolific third quarter sealing the rout. This emphatic win significantly strengthens India's chances of advancing, placing them atop Pool D on goal difference ahead of their crucial final pool match against England.