News for 'First World'

After Deschamps, Can Zidane Unlock France's Golden Generation?

After Deschamps, Can Zidane Unlock France's Golden Generation?

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

France's World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain marks the end of Didier Deschamps' 14-year reign, with Zinedine Zidane widely expected to take over and lead a new generation of gifted players towards future global titles.

Messi, Bellingham and history collide in Argentina-England semi-final

Messi, Bellingham and history collide in Argentina-England semi-final

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi's Argentina take on Jude Bellingham's England in a blockbuster FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, reviving one of football's greatest rivalries with a place in the final on the line.

P V Sindhu Suffers Gruelling Loss To Chen Yufei At China Open

P V Sindhu Suffers Gruelling Loss To Chen Yufei At China Open

Rediff.com6 days ago

Indian badminton ace P V Sindhu was eliminated from the China Open after a tough three-game loss to local favourite and world number four Chen Yufei in the second round. Despite winning the first game, Sindhu couldn't maintain her lead, eventually losing 21-16, 20-22, 18-21 in a match lasting nearly 90 minutes.

Former England captain and manager Kevin Keegan dies at 75

Former England captain and manager Kevin Keegan dies at 75

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Keegan's family and Newcastle announced in January that the two-time European Footballer of the Year was undergoing cancer treatment, without disclosing details of his illness.

'Itna Gussa Nahi Tha Logon Mein'

'Itna Gussa Nahi Tha Logon Mein'

Rediff.com6 days ago

'I grew up in an industry which was generous, kind, had a big heart, and was not cutthroat.' 'Well, maybe it was cutthroat, but not like this.' 'Itna gussa nahi tha logon mein. People were generous. Insecure nahi the.' 'Aisa nahi tha, mera kaam leke bhaag jayega.'

FIFA World Cup: Can Qatar erase 2022 nightmare against Switzerland?

FIFA World Cup: Can Qatar erase 2022 nightmare against Switzerland?

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Qatar take on Switzerland in their World Cup opener on Saturday eager to shake off the pressure of expectation, coming in as back-to-back Asian champions with an urgent need to make amends for a dismal debut as hosts of the 2022 tournament.

'This Is The Biggest Setback Of Modi's Career'

'This Is The Biggest Setback Of Modi's Career'

Rediff.com4 days ago

'For the rest of his tenure, people will start with the assumption that even Modi can be forced to bow down'

'I Went to the Locker Room and Cried': Neymar on Emotional Brazil Return

'I Went to the Locker Room and Cried': Neymar on Emotional Brazil Return

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Neymar admitted he shed tears after making his first Brazil appearance in 981 days during the World Cup 2026. The Brazil star returned from injury as the Selecao secured a knockout-stage spot with a 3-0 win over Scotland.'

Modi takes a dig at 'young' Rahul Gandhi while praising youth power

Modi takes a dig at 'young' Rahul Gandhi while praising youth power

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded young Indian innovators for the country's first privately developed orbital rocket, Skyroot Aerospace's Vikram-1, which made India the third nation with private orbital launch capabilities. While praising the 28-year-old average age of the Skyroot team, Modi made a veiled remark about a "56-year-old young man," widely understood to be a dig at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who recently turned 56.

Lord's ODI decider: All eyes on Rohit amid retirement buzz

Lord's ODI decider: All eyes on Rohit amid retirement buzz

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Rohit Sharma faces intense scrutiny over his form and future as India prepares for the series-deciding third ODI against England. Despite BCCI assurances, his recent struggles have fuelled speculation, especially concerning his ability to last until the 2027 ODI World Cup. The match is crucial for both Rohit to regain form and for India to clinch the series.

'I hope he gets a hundred and goes': Kapil on Rohit

'I hope he gets a hundred and goes': Kapil on Rohit

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Cricket legend Kapil Dev has urged fans to celebrate Rohit Sharma's illustrious career and the joy he has brought to the sport, rather than feel sad about his eventual retirement. Dev's comments come amidst speculation about Sharma's future in international cricket.

'India Has Only 15 More Years Left...'

'India Has Only 15 More Years Left...'

Rediff.com2 days ago

'After that the burdens of an ageing population will be upon us, and the share of working age population will shrink.'

Rohit Silences All Doubts With Historic Century At Lord's

Rohit Silences All Doubts With Historic Century At Lord's

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Rohit Sharma silenced all doubts about his place in India's ODI team as he blasted his way to a 84-ball century in the series-deciding third and final One-Day International against England, at Lord's, on Sunday.

Firouzja Maintains Lead As Chennai Grandmasters Round Four Ends In Draws

Firouzja Maintains Lead As Chennai Grandmasters Round Four Ends In Draws

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

French Grandmaster Alireza Firouzja holds a half-point lead over India's Arjun Erigaisi after all matches in Round 4 of the Chennai Grandmasters 2026 chess tournament concluded in draws. World champion D Gukesh also drew his game, while chess legend Viswanathan Anand interacted with fans at the event.

Sir Garfield Sobers leaves behind an unmatched cricket legacy

Sir Garfield Sobers leaves behind an unmatched cricket legacy

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Sobers excelled at many sports, including soccer and basketball, but cricket was his passion. His first memories of the sport were of playing in the road or on the beach, aged eight.

India Women Eye Dominance In T20 World Cup Clash With South Africa

India Women Eye Dominance In T20 World Cup Clash With South Africa

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

India Women's cricket team, fresh off two commanding victories, prepares to face a strong South Africa side in a crucial ICC Women's T20 World Cup Group 1 match. The contest is expected to highlight India's powerful top order against South Africa's varied bowling, with both teams aiming to build momentum and address fielding improvements.

Commonwealth Games 2026 Kick Off In Glasgow With Focus On Environment

Commonwealth Games 2026 Kick Off In Glasgow With Focus On Environment

Rediff.com5 days ago

The 23rd Commonwealth Games opened in Glasgow with a vibrant ceremony blending Scottish heritage and a strong message of sustainability. King Charles III declared the Games open, highlighting efforts to combat plastic pollution. The event featured a unique indoor setting, an early athletes' parade including the Indian contingent, and diverse musical and cultural performances, setting a new precedent for the multi-sport event.

LeBron James signs with Philadelphia 76ers for one last championship bid

LeBron James signs with Philadelphia 76ers for one last championship bid

Rediff.com4 days ago

LeBron James has announced his decision to join the Philadelphia 76ers for the final chapter of his NBA career, foregoing larger salaries for one more shot at a championship with a franchise that has not won a title in 43 years.

Captaincy Change Won't Fix India Women's Team Problems: Anjum Chopra

Captaincy Change Won't Fix India Women's Team Problems: Anjum Chopra

Rediff.com7 days ago

Former India women's cricket captain Anjum Chopra believes that merely replacing Harmanpreet Kaur as captain will not solve the fundamental issues plaguing the team, citing a significant lack of quality back-up options across all departments.

Olympic Gold Medallist Abhinav Bindra Calls For Education Reform Amid NEET Row

Olympic Gold Medallist Abhinav Bindra Calls For Education Reform Amid NEET Row

Rediff.com6 days ago

Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra and Grandmaster Nihal Sarin have voiced concerns over the ongoing NEET exam irregularities and student suicides. Bindra called for a transparent and merit-based education system, while Sarin highlighted the immense pressure students face. The protests, supported by activist Sonam Wangchuk, have seen students attempting to march to Parliament.

Birthday Special: Dhanush's 10 Best Films

Birthday Special: Dhanush's 10 Best Films

Rediff.com1 days ago

From intense gangster epics to tender slice-of-life dramas, these 10 films showcase why Dhanush remains one of Indian cinema's most versatile leading men.

Tilak Varma: 'Just a matter of one match or one series to get back the momentum'

Tilak Varma: 'Just a matter of one match or one series to get back the momentum'

Rediff.com7 days ago

Indian batter Tilak Varma has defended his batting approach during the recent tours of Ireland and England, stating that his strike rate was dictated by match situations and team requirements rather than personal preference. He emphasised his commitment to adapting his game, whether it means aggressive hitting or anchoring the innings, based on the team's needs, especially when wickets were falling frequently.

FIFA World Cup: Canada sends clear warning ahead of Qatar clash

FIFA World Cup: Canada sends clear warning ahead of Qatar clash

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Canada's national football team is preparing for their World Cup Group B match against Qatar in Vancouver, aiming to improve on their opening draw with Bosnia & Herzegovina. Coach Jesse Marsch emphasizes setting the tone early and confirms Alphonso Davies' fitness for the crucial game.

Bangladesh make history with first-ever ODI series win over Australia

Bangladesh make history with first-ever ODI series win over Australia

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Bangladesh secured a landmark series victory over a second-string Australian side with a composed chase in a rain-affected second One-Day International in Dhaka on Thursday, taking an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match contest.

Did AR Rahman Predict A National Award For Maidaan?

Did AR Rahman Predict A National Award For Maidaan?

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

'As soon as Rahmanji heard these lines, he said, 'Manojji, this is your National Award.' Nobody knows who is going to get the National Award but there was such a prophecy. When I think about it, I get goosebumps.'

Temasek looks to cash in on IPL boom as investor race heats up

Temasek looks to cash in on IPL boom as investor race heats up

Rediff.com7 days ago

Temasek is exploring investment opportunities in India's booming IPL cricket league, a senior executive told Reuters, making the Singapore state investor the latest player to target one of the world's richest sports tournaments.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Balogun brace as US prove too good for Paraguay

FIFA World Cup 2026: Balogun brace as US prove too good for Paraguay

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

The United States men's national team secured a dominant 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their World Cup Group D opener, with Folarin Balogun scoring two goals and Giovanni Reyna adding another.

Messi makes more history as Argentina escape Egypt scare

Messi makes more history as Argentina escape Egypt scare

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi extended his record by scoring in a ninth straight FIFA World Cup match as Argentina fought back from 2-0 down to beat Egypt 3-2 and keep their title defence alive.

3rd ODI: Morkel confident Rohit Sharma will overcome slump in form

3rd ODI: Morkel confident Rohit Sharma will overcome slump in form

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

India bowling coach Morne Morkel has expressed confidence in Rohit Sharma's ability to overcome his recent struggles in the ongoing ODI series against England, highlighting the calmness he brings to the team. Morkel also discussed the team's batting concerns, the need for middle-order breakthroughs, and his potential role in the 2027 World Cup.

Chief Justice Kant Flags AI Concerns, Advocates Disclosure In Arbitration

Chief Justice Kant Flags AI Concerns, Advocates Disclosure In Arbitration

Rediff.com4 days ago

Chief Justice of India Surya Kant highlighted the rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence into arbitration practices, expressing concerns about its accuracy, authenticity, and ethical use. He stressed the need for mandatory disclosure when generative AI is used in preparing legal documents and reports, advocating for shared standards to manage deepfakes and AI-generated material. The CJI also encouraged embracing AI for efficiency in tasks like e-discovery while preserving core arbitration principles.

Brazilian footballer Micael sent off for urinating by bench

Brazilian footballer Micael sent off for urinating by bench

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Brazilian footballer Micael was sent off before his Copa Paulista match for Sao Jose after the referee witnessed him urinating next to the substitutes' bench, an act for which his club later issued an apology.

The business behind the three-minute water breaks during FIFA World Cup 2026

The business behind the three-minute water breaks during FIFA World Cup 2026

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

With hot weather due and memories fresh of the scorching 2025 Club World Cup, FIFA has for the first time mandated three-minute hydration breaks in each half for all 104 matches of the World Cup starting this week in the U.S., Mexico and Canada.

'They Cannot Touch Virat and Rohit': Ashwin's Big Claim

'They Cannot Touch Virat and Rohit': Ashwin's Big Claim

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Ravichandran Ashwin has weighed in on the ongoing speculation surrounding Rohit Sharma's future, asserting that players like Rohit and Virat Kohli are "untouchable" due to their immense body of work and massive fan following. Ashwin highlighted that dropping such star batters would cause a significant uproar, unlike the reaction to bowlers being left out. This comes as Rohit recently silenced critics with a century at Lord's amidst retirement rumours.

Smallest Nations, Biggest Stage: Curacao, Cape Verde Defy All Odds At FIFA World Cup

Smallest Nations, Biggest Stage: Curacao, Cape Verde Defy All Odds At FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Curacao and Cape Verde, two of the smallest nations globally, have achieved an unprecedented feat by qualifying for the FIFA World Cup.

How does Ishan Kishan deal with the Abhishek, Sooryavanshi spotlight?

How does Ishan Kishan deal with the Abhishek, Sooryavanshi spotlight?

Rediff.com3 days ago

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.

You can never write a champion off: Saina hails Sindhu

You can never write a champion off: Saina hails Sindhu

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Badminton legend Saina Nehwal has lauded PV Sindhu's significantly improved attacking game, stating that her Japan Open Super 750 victory demonstrates her enduring championship quality and potential for more titles, despite recent injury challenges.

Hockey legend KD Singh Babu's ancestral home triggers UP political slugfest

Hockey legend KD Singh Babu's ancestral home triggers UP political slugfest

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday accused the Samajwadi Party of allowing the ancestral house of eminent hockey player KD Singh 'Babu' in Barabanki to go on sale, asserting that his government intervened to prevent it.

Alireza Firouzja takes sole lead after stunning D Gukesh at Chennai Grand Masters 2026

Alireza Firouzja takes sole lead after stunning D Gukesh at Chennai Grand Masters 2026

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

French Grandmaster Alireza Firouzja defeated reigning world champion D Gukesh in a 69-move battle at the Chennai Grand Masters 2026, taking the sole lead after the second round. Indian players M Pranesh, Arjun Erigaisi, and Nihal Sarin all secured draws against their respective opponents in the prestigious tournament.

Avengers Doomsday Trailer Review: Epic Or Overstuffed?

Avengers Doomsday Trailer Review: Epic Or Overstuffed?

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Avengers: Doomsday teaser trailer has dropped, revealing an ambitious, potentially overcrowded multiverse saga featuring Doctor Doom, returning heroes, and universe-colliding stakes that could define the future of the MCU.

First US President to achieve real Peace: Trump hails Iran deal

First US President to achieve real Peace: Trump hails Iran deal

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump has lauded a newly announced peace deal between the United States and Iran, predicting it will bring "peace and security" to West Asia and facilitate the reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.