News for 'First Ball'

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.

Serena Williams' Return To Wimbledon Ends In Shock First Round Loss

Serena Williams' Return To Wimbledon Ends In Shock First Round Loss

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Tennis legend Serena Williams' highly anticipated return to competitive action at Wimbledon after a four-year hiatus concluded with a 6-3 6-7(6) 6-3 defeat to Australian qualifier Maya Joint in the first round. Despite flashes of brilliance and fighting back from a match point, Williams was unable to overcome the 20-year-old, who secured the most significant victory of her career.

Can Auqib Nabi Continue His Wicket Ways In Tests? Here's What Pathan Said

Can Auqib Nabi Continue His Wicket Ways In Tests? Here's What Pathan Said

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi's biggest strength lies in his ability to force top batters into errors while defending, rather than relying on raw pace.

Egypt down Australia on penalties for first World Cup knock-out win

Egypt down Australia on penalties for first World Cup knock-out win

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Egypt secured their first-ever World Cup knockout victory, defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in a last-32 match at Dallas Stadium, advancing to the last-16.

'101 against RCB set my career up': David Miller

'101 against RCB set my career up': David Miller

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

South African batter David Miller considers his unbeaten 101 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2013 as his most rewarding league innings, highlighting its role in shaping his career. He also discussed mastering the art of finishing games and his favourite IPL memory, winning the title with Gujarat Titans in 2022.

'He's quite intimidating when he gets going': Cummins Wants Green To Be Aggressive Vs Bangladesh

'He's quite intimidating when he gets going': Cummins Wants Green To Be Aggressive Vs Bangladesh

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Australia captain Pat Cummins has encouraged all-rounder Cameron Green to adopt an aggressive approach against Bangladesh in the upcoming Test series.

Austria Coach Rangnick Acknowledges Messi's Brilliance But Questions First Goal

Austria Coach Rangnick Acknowledges Messi's Brilliance But Questions First Goal

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Austria coach Ralf Rangnick praised Lionel Messi's exceptional scoring ability after his team's 2-0 loss to Argentina, where Messi netted twice. However, Rangnick expressed frustration over Argentina's first goal, believing a foul on Xaver Schlager was overlooked. Despite the defeat, Rangnick was largely satisfied with his team's performance and their World Cup campaign.

Babar powers Pakistan to series-levelling win against Windies

Babar powers Pakistan to series-levelling win against Windies

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Pakistan successfully chased down a target of 75 runs on Day 4 to level their two-Test series against West Indies 1-1, with captain Babar Azam sealing the victory with two sixes despite an injury scare.

India get Tongue-lashing in record defeat at Trent Bridge

India get Tongue-lashing in record defeat at Trent Bridge

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

England inflicted a record T20 defeat on India, winning by 125 runs at Trent Bridge, with Josh Tongue taking 4-28 and Jofra Archer 3-29, to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match series.

Double blow! Shubman Gill's injury scare alarms India

Double blow! Shubman Gill's injury scare alarms India

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

India Test captain Shubman Gill sustained two painful blows to his right hand during a training session in Colombo, just before a warm-up match against a Sri Lanka XI. Despite initial concerns, assessments suggest no serious damage, allowing Gill to continue preparations for the upcoming World Test Championship series.

Shafique's century, Babar's fluent 85 put Pakistan in command

Shafique's century, Babar's fluent 85 put Pakistan in command

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Abdullah Shafique scored an unbeaten hundred and captain Babar Azam neared a century, forging a crucial 168-run partnership to put Pakistan in a commanding position against West Indies on Day 2 of the second Test.

David Miller eyes fairytale ODI World Cup farewell

David Miller eyes fairytale ODI World Cup farewell

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

South African batting stalwart David Miller has expressed his strong desire to win the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be co-hosted by South Africa. He aims to finish his career on a high note by lifting the trophy in front of home fans. Miller also reflected on his career as a middle-order finisher and highlighted his most memorable innings.

Windies All-Rounder Justin Greaves Sets New Test Record With Five Consecutive Wicket Maidens

Windies All-Rounder Justin Greaves Sets New Test Record With Five Consecutive Wicket Maidens

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

West Indies all-rounder Justin Greaves made history by becoming the first bowler in Test cricket to take wickets in five consecutive maiden overs during the opening Test against Pakistan in Tarouba.

'Clicky Ponting' Suspended for Finger-Clicking Trickery

'Clicky Ponting' Suspended for Finger-Clicking Trickery

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

An English amateur cricketer, nicknamed 'Clicky Ponting', has been suspended by his club, Saltburn Cricket Club, following allegations of finger-clicking trickery to deceive umpires during a Division Two game.

I would say I'm an all-rounder now: Shafali Verma on growing role with ball

I would say I'm an all-rounder now: Shafali Verma on growing role with ball

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

India's explosive opener Shafali Verma says her growing effectiveness with the ball is no accident as meticulous preparation and visualisation have helped her evolve into an all-rounder capable of contributing in multiple roles for the team.

Air Force Football Team pip Defenders FC in Durand Cup clash

Air Force Football Team pip Defenders FC in Durand Cup clash

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

The Indian Air Force Football Team defeated Sri Lanka's Defenders FC 2-1 in a Durand Cup Group C fixture. Naorem Somananda Singh scored in the first half, followed by an own goal, before Defenders FC managed a late consolation goal.

Shubman Gill 'Comfortable' as India Captain, Eyes WTC Final

Shubman Gill 'Comfortable' as India Captain, Eyes WTC Final

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Shubman Gill, India's Test captain, expresses comfort with his leadership role and highlights the team's progress. He acknowledges the challenge of qualifying for the World Test Championship final, requiring significant wins in upcoming matches. Gill also discusses the honour of leading India in its 600th Test and shares insights on playing conditions in Sri Lanka.

Startups Bet Big on Quick Commerce

Startups Bet Big on Quick Commerce

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

For these startups, qcom is emerging as a launch and discovery platform, not simply a fulfilment channel.

Durand Cup: 10-man TRAU hold NEROCA in tense Imphal derby

Durand Cup: 10-man TRAU hold NEROCA in tense Imphal derby

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

TRAU FC and NEROCA FC played out a goalless draw in a high-intensity Imphal Derby during the Durand Cup. Both teams created numerous scoring opportunities, with goalkeepers making crucial saves. TRAU FC finished the match with ten men after Adriko Rogers received a red card, but NEROCA FC failed to capitalise on their numerical advantage.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi caps Zimbabwe T20I series with double individual honours

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi caps Zimbabwe T20I series with double individual honours

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Teen Indian batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was named Player of the Match and Series after India's 3-0 T20 series sweep against Zimbabwe. Sooryavanshi scored 151 runs, including a rapid 50 and an 81, crediting his natural T20 game and team support for his success. Captain Shreyas Iyer praised the young team's fearless energy, while Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza highlighted the valuable experience gained by his side.

India dethrone England to become No 1 in T20Is again

India dethrone England to become No 1 in T20Is again

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

India has ascended to the No. 1 position in the ICC Men's T20I Team Rankings, surpassing England, following their dominant 2-0 series lead against Zimbabwe. Key performances from batters Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma, alongside strong bowling, secured the series victory and the top ranking.

Tanzid Hasan's Unbeaten 66 Secures Bangladesh T20 Series Win Over Zimbabwe

Tanzid Hasan's Unbeaten 66 Secures Bangladesh T20 Series Win Over Zimbabwe

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Bangladesh secured a 2-1 T20 series victory over Zimbabwe, winning the final match by four wickets. Opener Tanzid Hasan's unbeaten 66 and a crucial partnership with Towhid Hridoy were instrumental in chasing down Zimbabwe's target of 143.

'Gill Will Be Questioned Whatever He Does'

'Gill Will Be Questioned Whatever He Does'

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

'There's a lot of pressure on him, and there's a lot of pressure on this series as well, because it's crucial for India's chances in the WTC.'

First Time Germany Knocked Out On Penalties At World Cup

First Time Germany Knocked Out On Penalties At World Cup

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Germany's shootout defeat by Paraguay on Monday was the first time they have lost on penalties at a World Cup.

Clinical Mohun Bagan Super Giant Secures Derby Win Over East Bengal In Durand Cup Opener

Clinical Mohun Bagan Super Giant Secures Derby Win Over East Bengal In Durand Cup Opener

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Mohun Bagan Super Giant defeated arch-rivals East Bengal 1-0 in the Durand Cup opener, thanks to a decisive goal from Sahal Abdul Samad and a strong defensive performance led by goalkeeper Vishal Kaith. The pre-season derby saw Mohun Bagan combine clinical finishing with resolute defending to secure the win.

Shubman Gill Powers India To Victory Against Afghanistan In Rain-Hit First ODI

Shubman Gill Powers India To Victory Against Afghanistan In Rain-Hit First ODI

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Pacer Gurnoor Brar impressed on his international debut before captain Shubman Gill played a regal knock to set up India's seven-wicket win over Afghanistan in the rain-hit series opener.

Chouhan's Hole-In-One Secures Lead At Coal India Open

Chouhan's Hole-In-One Secures Lead At Coal India Open

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Om Prakash Chouhan has taken the opening-round lead at the Rs 1 crore Coal India Open in Kolkata, delivering a spectacular eight-under 62. His impressive performance included a hole-in-one and an eagle, giving him a one-shot advantage over former Asian Tour winner Ajeetesh Sandhu.

25 sixes, 233 runs! Abhishek roars back

25 sixes, 233 runs! Abhishek roars back

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Abhishek Sharma scored a sensational 233 runs off just 91 balls, including 25 sixes, in a senior inter-district One-day match in Punjab. This explosive knock comes at a crucial time for the left-hander, who has been struggling for form in international T20I cricket despite his past success and destructive batting ability.

Ireland STUN India to seal historic series win

Ireland STUN India to seal historic series win

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Ireland produced one of the biggest wins in their T20I history, edging India by just one run in a thrilling second T20I in Belfast to complete a historic 2-0 series sweep.

Kishan, Tilak slam 50s as India crush Zimbabwe to seal T20I series

Kishan, Tilak slam 50s as India crush Zimbabwe to seal T20I series

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Ishan Kishan and Tilak Verma led an intent-filled batting effort with well-paced 81 and an unbeaten 60 respectively to help India crush Zimbabwe by 90 runs in the second T20I and seal the the three-match series 2-0.

Women's T20 World Cup: Australia storm to big win over Bangladesh

Women's T20 World Cup: Australia storm to big win over Bangladesh

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Australia eased to a nine-wicket victory over Bangladesh for their second win of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026.

Warm up, Day 2: Padikkal hits unbeaten 142 as India fight back in Colombo

Warm up, Day 2: Padikkal hits unbeaten 142 as India fight back in Colombo

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Devdutt Padikkal hit an unbeaten 142 as India recovered from an early setback to reach 357/6 against Sri Lanka XI in Colombo.

Sooryavanshi Fever Grips Belfast as Teen Star Shines in First India Nets

Sooryavanshi Fever Grips Belfast as Teen Star Shines in First India Nets

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

India's preparations for the Ireland T20Is were briefly disrupted by practice facility issues in Belfast, but teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi stole the spotlight with an impressive first net session that sparked excitement among local Indian fans.

Messi has work to catch Mbappe for the Golden Boot

Messi has work to catch Mbappe for the Golden Boot

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi is aiming for the Golden Boot and a record third Golden Ball at the World Cup final against Spain.

How Cancer-Stricken Dad's Note Spurred Saransh Jain

How Cancer-Stricken Dad's Note Spurred Saransh Jain

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Saransh Jain's domestic success motivated by his cancer-affected dad's inspiring note. Saransh received his India Test call-up for the Sri Lanka tour on Tuesday.

Durand Cup: Nongkseh SS&CC Trounce Mumbay FC 7-0

Durand Cup: Nongkseh SS&CC Trounce Mumbay FC 7-0

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Nongkseh SS&CC concluded their Durand Cup campaign with a resounding 7-0 victory over Mumbay FC in a Group E fixture.

FIH Hockey World Cup: What makes India's attack so dangerous?

FIH Hockey World Cup: What makes India's attack so dangerous?

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

The Indian men's hockey team's forward line, including Mandeep Singh, Abhishek, and Shilanand Lakra, is meticulously preparing for the upcoming FIH Hockey World Cup. They are focusing on chemistry, consistency, and the evolving role of modern forwards, which now includes being the first line of defence. Senior players like Mandeep are mentoring younger talents, emphasising teamwork, mental fortitude, and converting chances.

2nd Youth Test: Raichandani, Venkata shine as India edge closer to victory vs Sri Lanka

2nd Youth Test: Raichandani, Venkata shine as India edge closer to victory vs Sri Lanka

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Opener Lakshya Rajesh Raichandani scored his second century of the series, an unbeaten 100, to help India U-19 declare their second innings at 208 for three. This put them in a commanding position against Sri Lanka U-19, who were chasing an improbable 472 and ended day three at 155-4.

FC Raengdai topple Indian Navy in Durand Cup

FC Raengdai topple Indian Navy in Durand Cup

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

FC Raengdai, making their Durand Cup debut, secured a 1-0 victory against last year's quarter-finalists Indian Navy Football Team. Khaidem Amarjit Singh scored the winning goal in the 58th minute, marking the club's first-ever Durand Cup goal. The Manipuri side displayed a strong performance, with a disciplined defence holding off Indian Navy's late pressure.

Recipe: Cheese Quesadillas With Pico de Gallo And Salsa

Recipe: Cheese Quesadillas With Pico de Gallo And Salsa

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Are you a fan of Mexican food? Then this recipe is meant for you.