News for 'First World'

Asian Games hockey: Gold-winning India women to get Rs 11 Lakh each

Asian Games hockey: Gold-winning India women to get Rs 11 Lakh each

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

Hockey India has announced significant cash awards for the national women's team and support staff following their historic gold medal win at the Asian Games in Japan. The team defeated defending champions China 1-0, securing India's first women's hockey gold at the event in 44 years, with Lalremsiami scoring the winning goal.

Novak Djokovic says body 'feeling good' as Beijing return offers fresh start

Novak Djokovic says body 'feeling good' as Beijing return offers fresh start

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Novak Djokovic returns at the China Open encouraged by his fitness, aiming to revive momentum against Nuno Borges at a venue where he remains unbeaten across 29 matches.

Rohit-Gill or Jaiswal? Coach reveals India's ODI plan

Rohit-Gill or Jaiswal? Coach reveals India's ODI plan

Rediff.com26 Sep 2026

India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak confirmed Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill as the preferred opening pair, while urging Yashasvi Jaiswal to continue working hard for his opportunities. Kotak also highlighted the invaluable experience of senior players like Rohit, Kohli, and Jadeja in preparing the team for the 2027 World Cup, emphasising a series-by-series planning approach. He also confirmed Shubman Gill's fitness for the upcoming match.

'Best environment' despite complaints? OCA defends Aichi-Nagoya Games

'Best environment' despite complaints? OCA defends Aichi-Nagoya Games

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

The Olympic Council of Asia defended the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games despite accommodation and transport complaints, saying mega multi-sport events always face challenges.

India Unveils 'Rising Together' Vision For 2036 Olympic Games Bid

India Unveils 'Rising Together' Vision For 2036 Olympic Games Bid

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

India has officially announced its bid to host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games, centered around the theme "Rising Together."

Why Vinod Khanna Returned To India

Why Vinod Khanna Returned To India

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

'My comeback to films has nothing to do with the fact that I wanted money. I came back because of my kids, Rahul and Akshaye.'

Brazil in Kolkata: India's biggest football test awaits

Brazil in Kolkata: India's biggest football test awaits

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

India is set to host five-time world champions Brazil in a historic invitational football friendly in Kolkata. The match, while offering invaluable exposure for the Indian team, has also drawn criticism over its cost and the decision to withdraw from the FIFA ASEAN Cup. The event carries political significance and marks a key step in Brazil's rebuilding process.

Indian men's hockey team ends World Cup campaign in eighth place after shoot-out loss

Indian men's hockey team ends World Cup campaign in eighth place after shoot-out loss

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

The Indian men's hockey team finished eighth in the FIH World Cup campaign after losing 3-4 in a shoot-out to co-hosts Belgium. The match ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw in regulation time, with Harmanpreet Singh scoring a brace for India.

History beckons: India eye Asian Games hockey gold after 44 years

History beckons: India eye Asian Games hockey gold after 44 years

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Forty-four years after their 1982 triumph, India face China for Asian Games women's hockey gold, with Olympic qualification for LA 2028 also at stake.

Asian Games: India's Men Archers Win Recurve Team Silver

Asian Games: India's Men Archers Win Recurve Team Silver

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

The Indian men's recurve archery team secured a silver medal at the Asian Games after a 1-5 defeat to defending champions Korea in the final. Despite a strong start, the Indian trio of Dhiraj Bommadevara, Yashdeep Bhoge, and Neeraj Chauhan couldn't maintain their lead.

Mairaj Ahmad Khan's Unconventional Path To Sporting Excellence

Mairaj Ahmad Khan's Unconventional Path To Sporting Excellence

Rediff.com27 Sep 2026

Mairaj Ahmad Khan, a 50-year-old Indian skeet shooter, is set to compete in his fourth Asian Games, showcasing remarkable longevity. The article traces his unique journey from a promising cricketer, who even played with Virender Sehwag, to becoming a decorated shooter with Olympic appearances and World Cup medals. Despite past disappointments, Khan approaches the upcoming games with renewed spirit, embodying wisdom gained over decades in sport.

India's hockey World Cup hopes on line against South Africa

India's hockey World Cup hopes on line against South Africa

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

India's Women's Hockey team, buoyed by a draw against China, is set to face South Africa in their second World Cup match. A win is crucial for their qualification hopes for the second round. Coach Sjoerd Marijne acknowledges areas for improvement, particularly in ball possession, despite strong performances from key players like Deepika and Navneet Kaur.

Alex Eala Wins, But Rain Leaves Filipino Fans Gutted at Asian Games

Alex Eala Wins, But Rain Leaves Filipino Fans Gutted at Asian Games

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

'It really sucks': Filipino fans were left frustrated by rain as Alex Eala's Asian Games opener was moved indoors in Nagoya.

'Stay calm': India goalkeeper Bichu Devi embraces Dhoni's mantra for hockey World Cup

'Stay calm': India goalkeeper Bichu Devi embraces Dhoni's mantra for hockey World Cup

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

India's World Cup goalkeeper Bichu Devi, inspired by cricketing legend Mahendra Singh Dhoni, emphasises the importance of composure under pressure.

BWF Worlds: Sindhu eyes 6th medal; Satwik-Chirag chase glory

BWF Worlds: Sindhu eyes 6th medal; Satwik-Chirag chase glory

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu is set to chase an unprecedented sixth medal at the BWF World Championships, which are returning to India after 17 years, beginning in New Delhi on Monday. Sindhu, already a five-time World Championships medallist, is high on confidence after winning the Japan Open Super 750 last month.

Asian Games: Indian boxers handed tricky draws

Asian Games: Indian boxers handed tricky draws

Rediff.com20 Sep 2026

Indian boxers, including Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain and Commonwealth Games champions, face challenging draws at the Asian Games.

Praggnanandhaa beats Sindarov for first win in Sinquefield Cup

Praggnanandhaa beats Sindarov for first win in Sinquefield Cup

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa secured his first victory at the Sinquefield Cup, defeating Javokhir Sindarov in a 95-move game.

'You can't suddenly make a change': Pujara backs Samson

'You can't suddenly make a change': Pujara backs Samson

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Former cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara believes the Indian team is well-prepared for the slowish tracks expected in the upcoming T20I series against the West Indies, particularly the first match in Lucknow, thanks to their recent experience on challenging pitches at the Asian Games in Japan.

India Vs Pakistan Hockey World Cup Match Is A Sell-Out

India Vs Pakistan Hockey World Cup Match Is A Sell-Out

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The highly anticipated India-Pakistan clash at the FIH Hockey World Cup in Amstelveen is a complete sell-out, with tickets having been sold online in phases since September 2025.

Jailer 2: Meet The New Players

Jailer 2: Meet The New Players

Rediff.com13 Oct 2026

From Mithun Chakraborty and Vidya Balan to S J Suryah and Hrithik Roshan, Jailer 2 boasts an eclectic new cast. Here's a look at the fresh faces joining Rajinikanth's Tiger Muthuvel Pandian and the films you know them from.

Netanyahu invites Capt Machchhar, Modi to Israel's I-Day event

Netanyahu invites Capt Machchhar, Modi to Israel's I-Day event

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has lauded Indian pilot Smit Machchhar as a 'hero of the entire world' for his bravery in foiling an alleged co-pilot's attempt to crash a flydubai flight, and has extended an invitation to Machchhar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi to light a flame on Israeli Independence Day.

Historic! Messi first player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches

Historic! Messi first player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi has achieved a new World Cup milestone, becoming the first player to score in seven consecutive matches.

'One percent lapse proved costly': Hardik Singh on Hockey World Cup loss to Netherlands

'One percent lapse proved costly': Hardik Singh on Hockey World Cup loss to Netherlands

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

Indian men's hockey team vice-captain Hardik Singh has taken responsibility for the team's 1-3 defeat against the Netherlands at the FIH World Cup. He attributed the loss to a "one per cent lapse" in an otherwise strong performance, highlighting how small errors proved costly in a high-stakes match. Defender Amit Rohidas also acknowledged unforced errors in the final quarter.

Muchova, Noskova steer Czech Republic past Ukraine for 12th Billie Jean King Cup title

Muchova, Noskova steer Czech Republic past Ukraine for 12th Billie Jean King Cup title

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

The Czech Republic secured their 12th Billie Jean King Cup title by defeating Ukraine 2-0 in the final. Karolina Muchova and Linda Noskova delivered dominant singles victories, with Muchova sweeping Anhelina Kalinina and Noskova overcoming Elina Svitolina. This victory marks the Czechs' first title since 2018, solidifying their position as the second-most successful nation in the competition's history.

'Winning gold medal at Asian Games a matter of great pride for Indian cricket': V V S Laxman

'Winning gold medal at Asian Games a matter of great pride for Indian cricket': V V S Laxman

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Head coach V V S Laxman hailed the Indian team's 'champion's mindset' after they beat Pakistan to win the gold medal in the men's T20 cricket tournament at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan.

Why Sooryavanshi Will Have To Wait: Gambhir

Why Sooryavanshi Will Have To Wait: Gambhir

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Gautam Gambhir has told Vaibhav Sooryavanshi that despite his impressive form, he will need to wait for his opportunity in the T20 team due to the established players and the importance of team continuity.

Jio Platforms IPO Set for October End Listing, Valued at $143-146 Billion

Jio Platforms IPO Set for October End Listing, Valued at $143-146 Billion

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

Digital services major Jio Platforms is anticipated to list on the stock exchange by the end of October, with an estimated enterprise valuation of USD 143-146 billion, making it India's largest public offer at around USD 3.8 billion.

Starc Dethrones Bumrah to Become World's No. 1 Test Bowler

Starc Dethrones Bumrah to Become World's No. 1 Test Bowler

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc dethroned Jasprit Bumrah to reach a career-high No. 1 in the ICC Test rankings for bowlers, after a stellar 10-wicket haul against Bangladesh.

India's Table Tennis Stars Advance In Asian Games

India's Table Tennis Stars Advance In Asian Games

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Indian table tennis players had a strong showing at the Asian Games, with two women's doubles pairs, Sreeja Akula-Syndrela Das and Yashaswini Ghorpade-Diya Chitale, reaching the pre-quarterfinals. In men's singles, Manush Shah and Manav Thakkar also advanced to the next rounds.

ODI World Cup: Tilak Varma could be India's answer to middle-order concerns

ODI World Cup: Tilak Varma could be India's answer to middle-order concerns

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

Tilak Varma is emerging as India's potential middle-order backup, offering left-handed batting variety and developing off-spin as selectors seek younger, flexible options ahead of the ODI World Cup.

Shooter Neeru Dhanda dedicates Asian Games gold to Army jawans

Shooter Neeru Dhanda dedicates Asian Games gold to Army jawans

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Neeru Dhanda has made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win an individual trap shooting gold at the Asian Games, also setting a new continental record.

Badminton World Championships: Lakshya Sen survives scare in opening round

Badminton World Championships: Lakshya Sen survives scare in opening round

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Lakshya Sen recovered from a slow start to beat Collins Valentine Filimon of Austria in his first round match at the BWF Badminton World Championships 2026 in New Delhi on Tuesday.

Akash Deep set for Test comeback as India pick New Zealand tour squads

Akash Deep set for Test comeback as India pick New Zealand tour squads

Rediff.com5 Oct 2026

Fast bowler Akash Deep is expected to be recalled to India's Test squad for the upcoming New Zealand tour, following a successful return to domestic cricket after a seven-month injury layoff. The selection committee is also set to pick squads for T20Is, ODIs, and India A's shadow tour.

Suraj Chand Secures India's First Men's Singles Gold In 16 Years

Suraj Chand Secures India's First Men's Singles Gold In 16 Years

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

Suraj Kumar Chand has won India's first men's singles gold medal in 16 years at the FISU World University Championship Squash, defeating Hungary's Benedek Takacs in a thrilling final. Spain's Marta Dominguez Fernandez also successfully defended her women's singles title.

Asian Games Cricket: India face tricky final against Pakistan

Asian Games Cricket: India face tricky final against Pakistan

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

World champions India, featuring a strong line-up of T20 stars, are set to face Pakistan in the men's gold-medal cricket clash at the Asian Games, a match where a silver medal would be considered a 'royal embarrassment' for India.

Historic! India's Women Archers Win Recurve Team Gold At Asian Games; Dhiraj-Kumkum Win Mixed Team Silver

Historic! India's Women Archers Win Recurve Team Gold At Asian Games; Dhiraj-Kumkum Win Mixed Team Silver

Rediff.com2 Oct 2026

The Indian women's recurve archery team secured a historic gold medal at the Asian Games by defeating 10-time Olympic champions South Korea. The team, comprising Ankita Bhakat, Kirti Sharma, and Kumkum Mohod, displayed exceptional nerve in challenging conditions.

Gauff bows out in Beijing, cites fatigue as 'draining' days force Wuhan withdrawal

Gauff bows out in Beijing, cites fatigue as 'draining' days force Wuhan withdrawal

Rediff.com7 Oct 2026

Coco Gauff exited the China Open after a draining few days, then withdrew from Wuhan as fatigue, online racial abuse and a gruelling season took their toll.

India's golden double is complete after thrilling Pakistan win

India's golden double is complete after thrilling Pakistan win

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Abhishek Sharma's 61 and Tilak Varma's unbeaten 51 powered India to 211/6 before Hasan Nawaz's 96 fell short as Pakistan lost by 19 runs.

MCC Head of Cricket Fraser Stewart addresses player exodus to T20 leagues, pink ball trials

MCC Head of Cricket Fraser Stewart addresses player exodus to T20 leagues, pink ball trials

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Fraser Stewart, Head of Cricket at MCC, expressed concern over cricketers retiring early from Tests for franchise T20 leagues but acknowledged players' desire for higher earnings with less play. He also welcomed the ICC's decision to trial pink balls in day-time Tests to mitigate fading light issues and boost spectator interest.

Why ICC sees China as cricket's next big opportunity

Why ICC sees China as cricket's next big opportunity

Rediff.com8 Oct 2026

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is actively pursuing a strategy to expand cricket in China, leveraging the sport's recent inclusion in the Olympics. Plans include establishing a Centre of Excellence, supporting a Tier 2 event, and promoting women's cricket, with significant investment and collaboration with the Chinese Cricket Association to embed the sport deeper into the country's sporting system.