News for 'Games on Demand'

Morocco offer France first real test of World Cup credentials

Morocco offer France first real test of World Cup credentials

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The meeting is a rematch of the 2022 World Cup semi-final, when France ended Morocco's historic run in Qatar.

FIFA World Cup: England vs Argentina: A semi-final for the ages

FIFA World Cup: England vs Argentina: A semi-final for the ages

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

England's football team has reached the World Cup semi-finals, demonstrating significant resilience by overcoming setbacks. They are set to face old rivals Argentina, a match steeped in history. The team's success is largely attributed to the partnership of Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham, who have scored a combined 12 goals. Coach Thomas Tuchel acknowledges the team's fighting spirit but also sees room for improvement as they aim to end a 60-year wait for a World Cup title.

Deschamps' golden France era ends in defeat, but legacy intact

Deschamps' golden France era ends in defeat, but legacy intact

Rediff.com6 days ago

The end of coach Didier Deschamps' Midas-like reign turned into a Tantalus torment as France suffered a comprehensive World Cup semi-final defeat by Spain before losing 6-4 to England in a wild third-place playoff, but those disappointments will not tarnish his legacy.

Iyer Reflects On India's T20I Defeat, Calls It A Learning Curve

Iyer Reflects On India's T20I Defeat, Calls It A Learning Curve

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

India's new T20I captain Shreyas Iyer reflected on the team's disastrous series losses to Ireland and England, admitting they failed to adapt to English conditions. Despite the setbacks, Iyer views the experience as a crucial learning opportunity for himself as a leader and for the team, especially concerning future overseas tours and World Cup preparations. He highlighted the need for better adaptation, improved fielding, and strategic team combinations.

'Suffering is in our DNA': Scaloni hails Argentina's fighting spirit

'Suffering is in our DNA': Scaloni hails Argentina's fighting spirit

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni lauded his team's ability to 'suffer without losing belief' after their dramatic 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland in the World Cup quarter-finals, highlighting their growth in navigating challenging situations.

FIFA World Cup: Tears For Two Belgium Goalkeepers After Spain Heartbreak

FIFA World Cup: Tears For Two Belgium Goalkeepers After Spain Heartbreak

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was seen consoling his replacement Senne Lammens, who was blamed for Spain's late winner in the FIFA World Cup quarter-final match on Friday.

FIFPRO Calls For Urgent Action On Rising Player Abuse At World Cup

FIFPRO Calls For Urgent Action On Rising Player Abuse At World Cup

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Global players' union FIFPRO has highlighted a "growing pattern of abuse," including racist and discriminatory attacks, against players at the World Cup, both online and in person. The union is demanding urgent collective action from football stakeholders, law enforcement, and social media platforms to protect players and ensure meaningful consequences for perpetrators.

French Open: Players demand fairer revenue sharing, stronger representation

French Open: Players demand fairer revenue sharing, stronger representation

Rediff.com22 May 2026

A simmering dispute between players and the Grand Slams over revenue sharing intensified at the French Open on Friday, with Novak Djokovic warning the sport risked further fragmentation as leading players pressed for a greater voice in shaping its future.

'They thought we would turn up in tuxedos': Mbappe Slams Paraguay's Tactics

'They thought we would turn up in tuxedos': Mbappe Slams Paraguay's Tactics

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Kylian Mbappe's crucial second-half penalty secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory for France over a resilient Paraguay, propelling them into the World Cup quarter-finals where they will face Morocco.

Family Demands CBI Investigation Into Indore Man's Murder

Family Demands CBI Investigation Into Indore Man's Murder

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

The family of Raja Raghuvanshi, an Indore resident who was murdered, is demanding a CBI investigation into the case after his wife, Sonam, who they believe is the mastermind, was granted bail. They plan to challenge the bail in the Meghalaya High Court, alleging manipulation in the investigation.

The Wait Is Over! Sooryavanshi Gets Emotional India Debut

The Wait Is Over! Sooryavanshi Gets Emotional India Debut

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Sooryavanshi, at just 15 years old, made his emotional T20I debut for India, becoming the youngest player to achieve this feat. He received his maiden cap from Tilak Varma amidst applause from his teammates, marking a dream come true.

Deschamps' Golden Era Ends in FIFA World Cup Heartbreak

Deschamps' Golden Era Ends in FIFA World Cup Heartbreak

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Didier Deschamps, who led France to their second world title in 2018 and established them as international football's most consistent major-tournament force, will be remembered for his unprecedented legacy despite recent semi-final defeats.

Historic Return: Cricket's LA28 Olympic Qualification System Approved

Historic Return: Cricket's LA28 Olympic Qualification System Approved

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board has officially approved the qualification system for cricket at the LA Olympic 2028, marking the sport's return after 128 years. The event will feature men's and women's T20 competitions with six teams each.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Dutch coach Koeman labels Morocco tie an early World Cup final

FIFA World Cup 2026: Dutch coach Koeman labels Morocco tie an early World Cup final

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The meeting between Morocco and Netherlands in the last 32 might have come too early at the World Cup, Dutch coach Ronald Koeman suggested on the eve of Monday's clash between the two contenders in Monterrey.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ancelotti banks on Neymar in Japan showdown

FIFA World Cup 2026: Ancelotti banks on Neymar in Japan showdown

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Coach Carlo Ancelotti is hopeful he will have Neymar available for more minutes in Monday's World Cup round of 32 fixture against Japan in Houston, and believes his Brazil side are ready for anything in what will be a tough knockout fixture.

How Cricket Coaching Can Be Reshaped Through AI

How Cricket Coaching Can Be Reshaped Through AI

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Advanced Impactor. an AI-powered platform, aims to modernise cricket coaching with real-time performance analytics.

Will India Bring Back Sanju Samson For Must-Win 4th T20I Vs England?

Will India Bring Back Sanju Samson For Must-Win 4th T20I Vs England?

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

It remains to be seen if India will fall back on Sanju Samson to revive their sagging fortunes with a revamped batting order in the must-win fourth T20 International in Bristol on Thursday.

Shreya Kalra Can Get Locked Up For...

Shreya Kalra Can Get Locked Up For...

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

From viral reels to millions of followers, Shreya Kalra has built a reputation for serving looks as effortlessly as she serves content.

Indore Family Demands CBI Investigation Into Honeymoon Murder Case

Indore Family Demands CBI Investigation Into Honeymoon Murder Case

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

The family of Raja Raghuvanshi, an Indore resident murdered during his honeymoon, is demanding a CBI investigation into the case after his wife, Sonam, was granted bail by a Meghalaya court. The family alleges Sonam is the mastermind behind the murder and plans to challenge the bail in the Meghalaya High Court.

Drop Sooryavanshi!: Manjrekar

Drop Sooryavanshi!: Manjrekar

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

'It's not OK to get physical on the field, whatever the provocation'.

The moment Lionel Messi's World Cup legend began

The moment Lionel Messi's World Cup legend began

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Former Argentina coach Jose Pekerman reflects on Lionel Messi's 2006 World Cup debut, stating he always believed the then 18-year-old would become one of the game's defining figures and that every minute on the pitch was crucial for his development.

How Badminton's 15-Point Format Will Change The Game...

How Badminton's 15-Point Format Will Change The Game...

Rediff.com5 May 2026

Top men's doubles player Chirag Shetty and veteran H. S. Prannoy share their perspectives on badminton's new 15-point format, approved by the BWF, discussing its potential impact on the game's dynamics and spectator experience.

How Orlando Gill Inspired Paraguay's Stunning Shootout Win Over Germany

How Orlando Gill Inspired Paraguay's Stunning Shootout Win Over Germany

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

In one of the biggest upsets ever seen at the World Cup, Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill saved the efforts of Kai Havertz and Nick Woltemade before Jonathan Tah fired over the bar, paving the way for Jose Canale to blast home the decisive spot kick.

World Tennis Aims For 30% Participation Boost With New Identity

World Tennis Aims For 30% Participation Boost With New Identity

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has rebranded as World Tennis, announcing an ambitious vision to increase global participation by 30% to 140 million players by 2035. The organisation, which governs the sport and runs major competitions, plans to reinvest 85% of its income annually for the next decade to achieve its strategic goals, including powering future stars and elevating national competitions. The name change aims to enhance recognition and foster greater collaboration within the sport.

'Pressure Will Follow Sooryavanshi'

'Pressure Will Follow Sooryavanshi'

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

'He's not going to have a lot of long road ahead of him where he's going to play without pressure. It will eventually catch up.'

Neck Pain? Poor Sleep? Your Mobile May Be The Culprit

Neck Pain? Poor Sleep? Your Mobile May Be The Culprit

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

'It is recommended to avoid screens for at least two hours before bedtime,' says Dr Manjusha Agarwal, senior consultant, internal medicine, at Mumbai's Gleneagles Hospital. 'Ideally, avoid taking your phone into the bedroom.'

Maradona's legendary 'Hand of God' match ball awaits new keeper

Maradona's legendary 'Hand of God' match ball awaits new keeper

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The match ball from Argentina's 1986 World Cup quarterfinal against England - made famous by Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" goal - is set to go up for auction with a $2.5-million opening bid, Heritage Auctions said.

Ian Bishop flags structural flaws after India Women's early exit from T20 World Cup

Ian Bishop flags structural flaws after India Women's early exit from T20 World Cup

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Indian women's cricket ecosystem will have to develop more fast bowlers and wrist spinners through the Women's Premier League (WPL) in order to garner success in the shortest format on global stage, said former West Indies pacer Ian Bishop on Monday.

Why are all-rounders getting injured so often?

Why are all-rounders getting injured so often?

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Batting-order flexibility has become a key factor in modern white-ball cricket, and former India all-rounder Vijay Shankar believes players who can seamlessly adapt to different roles are increasingly valuable in a format driven by situational demands.

FIFA World Cup 2026: England's Kane dependence could prove costly in knockout stages

FIFA World Cup 2026: England's Kane dependence could prove costly in knockout stages

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

England's World Cup campaign has increasingly come to rest on the shoulders of Harry Kane, whose goals, link-up play and ability to deliver in decisive moments have repeatedly rescued a side still searching for fluency and conviction.

The Strategic Importance Of Pakistan's Gwadar Port For China

The Strategic Importance Of Pakistan's Gwadar Port For China

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Gwadar is viewed as a critical pearl in China's maritime strategy as it would give a permanent logistical footprint near an important choke point - the Strait of Hormuz and the oil rich Persian Gulf, explains Commodore Venugopal Menon (retd).

India's All-Rounder Nitish Reddy Sidelined From UK Tour

India's All-Rounder Nitish Reddy Sidelined From UK Tour

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Indian all-rounder Nitish Reddy has been ruled out of the upcoming white ball tour of the UK due to a quadriceps injury sustained during the recent ODI series against Afghanistan. He will require a minimum of four weeks for rehabilitation.

Nagabandham Review: A Treasure Hunt Hijacked By Senseless Violence

Nagabandham Review: A Treasure Hunt Hijacked By Senseless Violence

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Nagabandham promises a fantasy treasure hunt adventure but ultimately devolves into a senselessly violent and shallow revenge saga.

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.

Why protecting Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's childhood is as important as his cricket

Why protecting Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's childhood is as important as his cricket

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

As India awaits Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's senior debut, experts urge cricket to remember the 15-year-old is still a child, highlighting the challenges of balancing extraordinary talent, growing fame and emotional well-being.

Abhishek Banerjee Demands Release Of Bengal Funds

Abhishek Banerjee Demands Release Of Bengal Funds

Rediff.com19 Apr 2026

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to release pending central dues to West Bengal before professing his love for the state. Banerjee also criticised BJP leaders for their reaction to the 'Jai Bangla' slogan and accused the BJP of failing to act on its promise to develop the Sagar islands.

Dutch Masterclass: How Netherlands Secured A Resounding World Cup Victory

Dutch Masterclass: How Netherlands Secured A Resounding World Cup Victory

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

The Netherlands secured a dominant 5-1 victory over Sweden in a World Cup match, with Brian Brobbey scoring an early double and Cody Gakpo adding two more in the second half. Crysencio Summerville sealed the rout with a late goal, despite Anthony Elanga pulling one back for Sweden. This win places the Netherlands at the top of Group F.

Time India Embraces China And US

Time India Embraces China And US

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

India's dual pursuit of a robust strategic partnership with Washington and a pragmatic, tension-management policy with Beijing represents the essence of modern multi-alignment. By embracing economic pragmatism, learning to compartmentalize political differences, and engaging in continuous dialogue, India can secure its borders, grow its economy, and contribute to a stable, multipolar Asian century, points out Ambassador Rajasekhar.

Will Vaibhav Sooryavanshi debut? Shreyas Iyer finally breaks silence

Will Vaibhav Sooryavanshi debut? Shreyas Iyer finally breaks silence

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

India captain Shreyas Iyer addressed the media ahead of the T20I series opener against England, discussing team selection, particularly the potential debut of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Iyer emphasised the importance of backing experienced players who won the T20 World Cup and reflected on India's recent series loss to Ireland, highlighting lessons learned for the upcoming challenging series in England.

This Duck Just Became Mexico's FIFA World Cup Hero

This Duck Just Became Mexico's FIFA World Cup Hero

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Merlin, a domesticated duck dressed in a miniature Mexico shirt and custom socks, has become an unexpected unofficial mascot for Mexico's World Cup team. After going viral during street celebrations, Merlin's popularity soared, with fans embracing the feathered supporter and his owner, Karla Gomez, expressing delight at his newfound fame.