News for 'India First'

Saransh Jain makes India Test debut against Sri Lanka

Saransh Jain makes India Test debut against Sri Lanka

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

Saransh Jain, the 33-year-old Madhya Pradesh all-rounder, made his India Test debut against Sri Lanka, replacing the injured Kuldeep Yadav, a testament to his consistent domestic performances.

Dogged Dinusha Helps Sri Lanka Draw 2nd Test, India win series 1-0

Dogged Dinusha Helps Sri Lanka Draw 2nd Test, India win series 1-0

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Sonal Dinusha scored a brilliant century while the tail wagged around him as Sri Lanka earned a draw on the final day of the second Test in Colombo on Thursday but India claim the series 1-0.

India Win 1st Test: Where Do They Stand In WTC Race?

India Win 1st Test: Where Do They Stand In WTC Race?

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

India secured a comprehensive victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test, improving their World Test Championship points percentage. However, despite the win, their path to the WTC final has become significantly more challenging, requiring them to win almost all their remaining matches due to a tightly packed table and other teams' results.

Shane Watson reveals why India feels like 'second home'

Shane Watson reveals why India feels like 'second home'

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has described India as his 'second home,' stating he felt more welcomed and supported by Indian cricket fans than in Australia, attributing this strong connection to his IPL career and the country's appreciation for the sport.

West Asia crisis: Putin assures India of steady energy, fertiliser supplies

West Asia crisis: Putin assures India of steady energy, fertiliser supplies

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Russia on Monday assured India of uninterrupted supply of energy and fertilisers amid disruption caused by the West Asia crisis, as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met President Vladimir Putin in Moscow and held talks with his key interlocutors.

India cited Trump's 'unpredictable behaviour' for no presser

India cited Trump's 'unpredictable behaviour' for no presser

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Indian government sources revealed that a 'cautious approach' was adopted during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's June talks with then-US President Donald Trump due to concerns over Trump's 'unpredictable behaviour' with foreign leaders, leading to a preference against a joint media interaction.

How Free Is India Today?

How Free Is India Today?

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

As India's decline continued on global indices, the government first blamed methodology and then motives. This is where we remain today as we wish each other and ourselves a happy Independence Day, points out Aakar Patel.

What Went Wrong For India At The Hockey World Cup

What Went Wrong For India At The Hockey World Cup

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

India's Hockey World Cup campaign ended in disappointment after a 5-3 defeat to Argentina, highlighting persistent defensive issues and a struggle to perform against top-ranked teams. The team's problems, including conceding early goals and a lack of intensity, had been building throughout the year.

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.

Blue Colts Aim For Historic Win Against Syria In U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers Opener

Blue Colts Aim For Historic Win Against Syria In U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers Opener

Rediff.com5 days ago

India's U20 football team, the Blue Colts, is set to kick off their AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers campaign against Syria in Tashkent. This opening match is crucial as India aims to secure their first-ever win against Syria and qualify for the Asian Cup for the first time since 2006, navigating a tough group that also includes Uzbekistan and Bangladesh.

Afghanistan name new captain for India T20I series

Afghanistan name new captain for India T20I series

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Ibrahim Zadran has been appointed captain of Afghanistan's T20I squad for the upcoming three-match series against India, which will be played in New Delhi. The squad sees the return of fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq and all-rounder Gulbadin Naib, featuring a blend of experienced players like Rashid Khan and Mohammad Nabi, alongside uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Noor Rahman.

Sri Lanka bring in two new faces for India Test

Sri Lanka bring in two new faces for India Test

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Sri Lanka has announced two changes to their squad for the upcoming second and final Test against India, bringing in all-rounder Sahan Arachchige and batter Kamil Mishara. These changes come as Sri Lanka aims to level the series after losing the first Test.

Colombo Test: Devdutt Padikkal's red-hot run continues as 2nd ton gives India strong start

Colombo Test: Devdutt Padikkal's red-hot run continues as 2nd ton gives India strong start

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

Devdutt Padikkal struck his second century of the series, capitalising on Sri Lanka's early dropped chances to make 117 and steer India towards a strong first-innings total.

Has India Found Its Answer To Its No. 3 Riddle?

Has India Found Its Answer To Its No. 3 Riddle?

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

It is not easy to score two consecutive Test centuries unless one knows how to play the good ball on its merit and punish the bad ball to full effect.

1st Test: Manav Suthar scripts India's stunning Galle victory

1st Test: Manav Suthar scripts India's stunning Galle victory

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Manav Suthar delivered a standout performance in just his second Test, taking 10 wickets as India beat Sri Lanka by 165 runs in the opening match of the series.

India U20 Men's Team Held To Draw By Yemen In Friendly Match

India U20 Men's Team Held To Draw By Yemen In Friendly Match

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

The India U20 men's football team played a 0-0 draw against Yemen in the first of two friendly matches in Bengaluru, as part of their preparation for the upcoming AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers.

India's tour of Bangladesh set to be postponed again!

India's tour of Bangladesh set to be postponed again!

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Bangladesh Cricket Board president Tamim Iqbal has indicated that India's upcoming cricket tour to Bangladesh, scheduled for September, might be postponed again. Discussions are ongoing between the BCB and BCCI, with the BCB president suggesting dates could be shifted due to a conflicting domestic tournament schedule and past strained relations between the boards.

Treesa-Gayatri end India's 14-year medal wait

Treesa-Gayatri end India's 14-year medal wait

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Indian badminton pair Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand clinched a historic medal at the World Championships, defeating China's Jia Yi Fan and Zhang Shu Xian in a thrilling quarter-final match. The unseeded duo fought back from a game down to win 16-21, 21-15, 21-13, assuring India of at least a bronze. This achievement marks India's first women's doubles medal at the event since 2011 and comes after Treesa's recent recovery from an ankle injury.

Brazil Delegation Inspects Kolkata Ahead Of India Friendly

Brazil Delegation Inspects Kolkata Ahead Of India Friendly

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

A delegation from the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) visited Kolkata to inspect venues and infrastructure for the upcoming international friendly against India on October 3. The inspection covered the stadium, training facilities, accommodation, and security, with West Bengal's Sports Minister assuring world-class arrangements.

Two Air India Pilots Fail Drug Tests

Two Air India Pilots Fail Drug Tests

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The pilots testing positive have been removed from duty, with their samples sent for confirmatory testing.

Harmanpreet calls for tunnel vision as India prepare for tougher Women's T20 Asia Cup

Harmanpreet calls for tunnel vision as India prepare for tougher Women's T20 Asia Cup

Rediff.com7 days ago

Harmanpreet Kaur said India will not single out Pakistan or any opponent at the Women's T20 Asia Cup, focusing instead on consistent cricket and handling pressure.

2nd Test: Bowlers rock SL after Jurel ton propels India to 503 for 9 on Day 2

2nd Test: Bowlers rock SL after Jurel ton propels India to 503 for 9 on Day 2

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Dhruv Jurel notched up an unbeaten 115 to propel India to a commanding 509 for 8 before they declared the first innings against Sri Lanka on day two of the second Test in Colombo.

India, Japan deepen maritime security with eye on China

India, Japan deepen maritime security with eye on China

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

India and Japan have signed a Memorandum of Arrangement on maritime security cooperation, committing to deepen defence ties and oppose unilateral actions that impede freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific, a move seen as directed at China's increasing military presence.

'It's Do-or-Die': Harmanpreet's 60-Minute Challenge to India

'It's Do-or-Die': Harmanpreet's 60-Minute Challenge to India

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Indian hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh has called for a complete 60-minute performance from his squad in their "do-or-die" FIH World Cup match against Olympic champions Netherlands. Both Harmanpreet and coach Craig Fulton believe India can upset the hosts by playing smartly, maintaining impeccable defense, and capitalising on their underdog status.

Hockey World Cup: India face stern test against Olympic champions Netherlands

Hockey World Cup: India face stern test against Olympic champions Netherlands

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

India faces a critical challenge against co-hosts and reigning Olympic champions the Netherlands in their Hockey World Cup second-round opener.

Harmanpreet stars as India win Hockey World Cup opener

Harmanpreet stars as India win Hockey World Cup opener

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Captain Harmanpreet Singh's two goals helped India secure a 3-1 victory over Wales in their first match of the men's Hockey World Cup, with Sanjay also contributing to the scoreline.

Boom in EV two-wheeler demand creates supply bottleneck in India

Boom in EV two-wheeler demand creates supply bottleneck in India

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

India's electric two-wheeler market has seen record penetration, exceeding 11.2 per cent, driven by crude oil price fluctuations. This surge has led to an unexpected crisis for Indian OEMs, with unfulfilled customer demand reaching 20-30 per cent and average waiting periods exceeding four weeks, a situation expected to intensify during the upcoming festival season.

'The pressure is on another level': Harmanpreet on India-Pakistan clash

'The pressure is on another level': Harmanpreet on India-Pakistan clash

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

Harmanpreet Kaur says a winning culture is taking shape in the Indian women's cricket team as they prepare for the Asia Cup and Asian Games.

Maruti Brezza Targets First-Time SUV Buyers

Maruti Brezza Targets First-Time SUV Buyers

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

The refreshed Brezza will target first-time, replacement and additional-car buyers as Maruti responds to changing preferences and intensifying competition in compact SUVs.

Atiqa Mir's fighting spirit shines in Italy karting run

Atiqa Mir's fighting spirit shines in Italy karting run

Rediff.com2 days ago

Indian karting sensation Atiqa Mir achieved two top-four finishes in Round 1 of the WSK Final Cup in Franciacorta, Italy, despite facing setup issues and a crash in the final. Her performance showcased resilience and race craft against a competitive field of 72 drivers.

Blue Tigers To Face World Cup Nation Panama In Bengaluru

Blue Tigers To Face World Cup Nation Panama In Bengaluru

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

The Indian senior men's football team will play an international friendly against Panama at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on September 26. This match against a FIFA World Cup-playing nation will be a significant test for the Blue Tigers, marking their return to Bengaluru after their SAFF Championship 2023 victory.

Injury Woes Mount For Sri Lanka Ahead Of Must-Win 2nd Test Vs India

Injury Woes Mount For Sri Lanka Ahead Of Must-Win 2nd Test Vs India

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Sri Lanka's cricket team is facing significant injury challenges ahead of the second Test against India, with key batter Kusal Mendis ruled out due to a hamstring injury and Dinesh Chandimal sidelined with a concussion.

India's Junior Men's Hockey Squad Fine-Tunes Asia Cup Strategy In Dalian

India's Junior Men's Hockey Squad Fine-Tunes Asia Cup Strategy In Dalian

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

The Indian junior men's hockey team is undergoing a preparatory camp in Dalian, China, playing three practice matches against the host country's junior team. This camp is crucial for fine-tuning their skills and strategy ahead of the Junior Asia Cup, scheduled from September 4 to 13 in Moqi, China.

After Ashwin and Jadeja, Manav Suthar looks ready to lead India's new spin generation

After Ashwin and Jadeja, Manav Suthar looks ready to lead India's new spin generation

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Manav Suthar's 10-wicket haul against Sri Lanka showcased his skill, meticulous preparation and growing maturity, marking him as India's potential next spin leader.

Why India Got Freedom At The Stroke of Midnight

Why India Got Freedom At The Stroke of Midnight

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

August 15 was the date of India's Independence, so why did transfer of power happen at the stroke of midnight August 14-15?

Rishabh Pant 'badly bruised', India hope he will keep wickets on Day 4

Rishabh Pant 'badly bruised', India hope he will keep wickets on Day 4

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

India's bowling coach Morne Morkel provided an update on Rishabh Pant's shoulder injury, stating the wicketkeeper-batter is "badly bruised" but expressed hope for his return on day four of the second Test against Sri Lanka. Pant did not keep wickets on day three after sustaining a blow while batting. Morkel also commented on Kuldeep Yadav's absence due to viral fever and India's strategy to secure the remaining Sri Lankan wickets.

Saransh Jain's IPL Sacrifice for Red-Ball Cricket Leads to India Test Cap

Saransh Jain's IPL Sacrifice for Red-Ball Cricket Leads to India Test Cap

Rediff.com23 Aug 2026

Saransh Jain, India's Test cap No. 320, prioritised red-ball cricket over an IPL contract, a decision lauded by his coach Chandrakant Pandit, which ultimately led to his Test debut against Sri Lanka.

Team India Celebrates Independence Day in Galle

Team India Celebrates Independence Day in Galle

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

The Indian cricket team marked the nation's 80th Independence Day by hoisting the Tricolour in Galle, Sri Lanka, ahead of their opening Test match against the host nation.

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.

India's Sharmila Dhankar Clinches Historic Commonwealth Games Gold

India's Sharmila Dhankar Clinches Historic Commonwealth Games Gold

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Sharmila Dhankar, a para-athlete who overcame polio and personal adversity, has made history by becoming India's first para-athlete to win a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in the women's shot put F57 event. Her season's best throw of 9.81m ended a two-decade wait for India in para-athletics at the CWG, with compatriot Shilpa Shyla also securing a bronze.