News for 'National Games'

'Greatest to walk the earth': Gavaskar on Sobers' legacy

'Greatest to walk the earth': Gavaskar on Sobers' legacy

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Cricket legend Sir Garfield Sobers, widely considered the greatest all-rounder in the sport's history, has passed away at the age of 89. Tributes poured in from across the cricketing world, with former India captains Sunil Gavaskar and Virat Kohli expressing their profound sadness and respect for the West Indies icon. The Lanka Premier League will also honour his legacy.

Neeru Dhanda wins women's trap gold in Shotgun World Cup

Neeru Dhanda wins women's trap gold in Shotgun World Cup

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Asian Championships gold medallist Neeru Dhanda has secured her first individual ISSF World Cup title in the women's trap event in Lonato, Italy.

Xavi And Mascherano Reflect On Barcelona's Impact On World Cup Final

Xavi And Mascherano Reflect On Barcelona's Impact On World Cup Final

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Barcelona legends Xavi Hernandez and Javier Mascherano discuss the profound influence of their former club on the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina. They highlight the impact of La Masia-bred players like Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi for Spain, and the enduring brilliance of Lionel Messi for Argentina, all products of Barcelona's footballing philosophy. Both former players express pride in the shared playing style and the quality of the final.

Vinesh Phogat's Asian Games Dream Dashed In Trials

Vinesh Phogat's Asian Games Dream Dashed In Trials

Rediff.com30 May 2026

Vinesh Phogat's return to competitive wrestling ended in disappointment as she lost in the Asian Games selection trials, highlighting the challenges she faces in her comeback journey after the Paris Olympics trauma.

From knee injury to World Cup hero: Rodri's rise

From knee injury to World Cup hero: Rodri's rise

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Rodri, Spain's midfield maestro, completed his collection of major football prizes by winning the World Cup, less than two years after a significant knee injury. Named the tournament's best player, he joins an elite group of footballers. Rodri highlighted the importance of overcoming adversity and praised his team's collective effort in their hard-fought victory against Argentina.

5 Young Underdogs Who Could Steal the Show At Badminton Worlds

5 Young Underdogs Who Could Steal the Show At Badminton Worlds

Rediff.com6 days ago

As New Delhi prepares to host the BWF World Championships from August 17-23, 2026, five young talents - Ayush Shetty, Unnati Hooda, Alwi Farhan, Tomoka Miyazaki, and Kalyana Nalbantova - are identified as potential breakout stars capable of challenging the sport's biggest names and redefining their careers.

SEE: Inside Spain's Wild Dressing Room Celebration

SEE: Inside Spain's Wild Dressing Room Celebration

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Spain's national football team celebrated wildly in their dressing room after defeating France 2-0 to secure a spot in the World Cup final. The team's official social media shared a video of the joyous moments, highlighting their unity and confidence as they aim for another World Cup title.

Iran team arrive in US for FIFA World Cup opener as the two nations reach peace deal

Iran team arrive in US for FIFA World Cup opener as the two nations reach peace deal

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Iran's soccer team arrived in the United States for the first time at this World Cup on Sunday, landing at Los Angeles International Airport and holding a press conference on the same day that a peace deal between the two nations was announced.

How Sarfaraz Khan Improved His Game During IPL Hiatus

How Sarfaraz Khan Improved His Game During IPL Hiatus

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Sarfaraz Khan discusses his focus on fitness and strike rate during his two-year absence from the Indian Premier League, highlighting his comeback with Chennai Super Kings and his dedication to continuous improvement.

How India Is Becoming A Global Hub For International Sporting Events

How India Is Becoming A Global Hub For International Sporting Events

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya highlighted India's growing global sporting stature, evidenced by the increasing number of international events the country is hosting. He announced that India is set to host 36 international events between January 2025 and June 2026, along with 9 events this year and 19 in 2027-2028. Mandaviya also spoke about government support for athletes, transparent selection processes for major events like the Commonwealth Games, and improved domestic athletic performances, citing 26 national records broken in Indian athletics recently.

SAI Boosts Weightlifting With Investment For Commonwealth And Asian Games

SAI Boosts Weightlifting With Investment For Commonwealth And Asian Games

Rediff.com11 May 2026

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) is investing nearly Rs 1.95 crore in international exposure and national coaching camps for weightlifters preparing for the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games.

England's Pickford to face Messi for first time in World Cup semi-final clash

England's Pickford to face Messi for first time in World Cup semi-final clash

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford is set to face Lionel Messi for the first time in his career during Wednesday's World Cup semi-final against Argentina, an occasion he described as carrying a 'sense of history' given his long-standing admiration for the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.

Harshit Rana faces fitness heat as Varun Chakaravarthy's T20 future hangs in balance

Harshit Rana faces fitness heat as Varun Chakaravarthy's T20 future hangs in balance

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Harshit's fitness, Varun's longevity under scanner post hamstring injuries

Global Superstars To Headline FIFA World Cup 2026 Closing Ceremony

Global Superstars To Headline FIFA World Cup 2026 Closing Ceremony

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will conclude with a spectacular closing ceremony at New Jersey Stadium, featuring performances by global superstars like Tom Cruise, Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger, Robbie Williams, and IShowSpeed. Jennifer Hudson will perform the US national anthem. The ceremony will celebrate the journey of 48 teams across three host countries and 16 cities, marking the end of a record-breaking tournament.

Doping scare erupts at Wrestling Nationals

Doping scare erupts at Wrestling Nationals

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Wrestling Federation of India President Sanjay Singh addressed allegations of bias against Haryana wrestlers and acknowledged ongoing doping concerns after used syringes were found at the National Open Ranking Tournament.

Top Indian Athletes Ready for National Indoor Championships Ahead of Asian Games

Top Indian Athletes Ready for National Indoor Championships Ahead of Asian Games

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

Top Indian athletes, including Animesh Kujur and Praveen Chithravel, are set to compete in the inaugural National Indoor Championships, using the event as preparation for the Asian Games later this year.

BBL creates history, India to host 1st-ever match outside Australia

BBL creates history, India to host 1st-ever match outside Australia

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Melbourne Cricket Ground, announcing India's aspiration to host the 2036 Olympics and welcoming Chennai's role in the Big Bash League. He emphasised cricket as a strong bond between India and Australia, and both PMs unveiled a Roadmap on Sport Cooperation to deepen bilateral ties beyond cricket.

Legendary Defender Paolo Maldini Takes Helm As FIGC Technical Director

Legendary Defender Paolo Maldini Takes Helm As FIGC Technical Director

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Italian Football Federation has appointed legendary former captain Paolo Maldini as its new Technical Director, aiming to leverage his experience to revitalise the national team's international standing after recent World Cup qualification struggles.

'I should've been India coach': Constantine blasts AIFF

'I should've been India coach': Constantine blasts AIFF

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Former India football coach Stephen Constantine has expressed deep disappointment over the national team's current decline, criticising the All India Football Federation for its decisions, including the appointment of Khalid Jamil as coach despite his lack of international experience. Constantine, who led India to a historic FIFA ranking of 96, believes he should still be managing the team and calls for wider structural reforms in Indian football.

Indian Badminton Adopts New 3x15 Scoring System Domestically

Indian Badminton Adopts New 3x15 Scoring System Domestically

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

The Badminton Association of India (BAI) is implementing the new BWF 3x15 scoring format across all domestic tournaments from this month. This change aims to familiarise Indian shuttlers with the revised system before its international adoption next year, impacting all age groups and national championships.

Haryana CM To Distribute Rs 20.59 Crore In Cash Awards To Athletes

Haryana CM To Distribute Rs 20.59 Crore In Cash Awards To Athletes

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini will present cash awards totalling Rs 20.59 crore to 198 medal-winning athletes and international participants at a state-level function in Panchkula. The awards aim to recognise athletes who have excelled in international and national competitions, with funds directly transferred to beneficiaries' bank accounts.

Senegal FA President: World Cup Team Doctor Was 'Gynaecologist'

Senegal FA President: World Cup Team Doctor Was 'Gynaecologist'

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Senegal's football federation president, Abdoulaye Fall, has claimed the national team's doctor at the recent World Cup in North America was 'trained as a gynaecologist', raising concerns among players about medical support during their disappointing campaign. The Senegalese Association of Sports Medicine has rejected these allegations as 'unfounded and defamatory'.

Asian Tour, DP World Tour, PGA TOUR Forge Landmark Partnership Until 2029

Asian Tour, DP World Tour, PGA TOUR Forge Landmark Partnership Until 2029

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

The Asian Tour, DP World Tour, and PGA TOUR have announced a significant partnership extending until at least 2029. This alliance aims to enhance commercial and playing opportunities, establish pathways for Asian Tour members, and will see the DP World Tour co-sanctioning events with the Asian Tour again, marking a new era for professional golf globally and a potential setback for LIV Golf.

South Africa World Cup midfielder Jayden Adams dies aged 25

South Africa World Cup midfielder Jayden Adams dies aged 25

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

South Africa international midfielder Jayden Adams, who played a key role in his country's 2026 World Cup campaign, has died at the age of 25, with no cause of death immediately provided.

War Veterans Call For Football Focus Ahead Of Argentina-England Semi-Final

War Veterans Call For Football Focus Ahead Of Argentina-England Semi-Final

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

An Argentine war veterans federation has urged football fans to prioritise the World Cup semi-final against England as a sporting event, rather than using it to reignite sovereignty claims over the Falkland/Malvinas Islands. They emphasised diplomacy for territorial disputes and called for respect for fallen soldiers without promoting hatred.

Why Vinesh Phogat Can Compete In Asian Games Trials

Why Vinesh Phogat Can Compete In Asian Games Trials

Rediff.com23 May 2026

The Delhi High Court has approved wrestler Vinesh Phogat's participation in the Asian Games trials, criticising the Wrestling Federation of India's exclusionary selection policy.

Vinesh Phogat's Asian Games Dream Dashed After Trials Defeat

Vinesh Phogat's Asian Games Dream Dashed After Trials Defeat

Rediff.com30 May 2026

Vinesh Phogat's return to competitive wrestling ended in disappointment at the Asian Games selection trials, losing to Meenakshi Goyat in the 53kg semifinals after a controversial and emotionally charged day.

Why Deepika Kumari Will Miss The Asian Games

Why Deepika Kumari Will Miss The Asian Games

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Four-time Olympian Deepika Kumari, along with Atanu Das and Abhishek Verma, failed to secure a spot in India's archery squad for the Asian Games in Japan after a selection trial. Teenagers Kirti Sharma and Kumkum Mohod emerged as notable gainers in the women's recurve section.

Durand Cup Trophy Tour Kicks Off In Ranchi Ahead Of Seven Matches

Durand Cup Trophy Tour Kicks Off In Ranchi Ahead Of Seven Matches

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Jharkhand Sports Minister Sudivya Kumar flagged off the 135th Durand Cup 2026 trophy tour in Ranchi. The state capital is set to host seven matches of the prestigious football tournament, including six league matches and one quarter-final, starting July 26. The minister expressed hope that Jharkhand's successful hosting could lead to it hosting final matches in future years.

Kuldeep Yadav's Coach Confident Of Spinner's Comeback

Kuldeep Yadav's Coach Confident Of Spinner's Comeback

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Kuldeep Yadav's childhood coach, Kapil Pandey, has expressed confidence in the left-arm wrist spinner's ability to regain his place in the Indian team despite his recent exclusion from the playing XI. Pandey highlighted Kuldeep's fighting spirit, impact in previous matches, and consistent work ethic, dismissing concerns about his limited appearances and emphasising his value as a top spinner.

How Modi's Political Aura Crumbled At Jantar Mantar

How Modi's Political Aura Crumbled At Jantar Mantar

Rediff.com3 days ago

It was left to an incensed Gen Z to show the rest of India that enough was enough, and that the time had come to shatter the fear psychosis generated by the government's authoritarian approach to protests and criticism, points out M R Narayan Swamy.

How Indian Table Tennis Doubles Pairs Are Dominating World Rankings

How Indian Table Tennis Doubles Pairs Are Dominating World Rankings

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Indian table tennis has achieved a significant milestone with three doubles pairs entering the top 10 of the ITTF World Rankings. Manav Thakkar and Manush Shah reached World No. 2 in men's doubles, while Diya Chitale and Yashaswini Ghorpade are World No. 10 in women's doubles, and Diya Chitale and Shah are World No. 5 in mixed doubles. This marks the first time India has had three doubles pairs simultaneously in the top 10, underscoring the nation's growing strength in the sport, especially with doubles returning to the Olympics in 2028.

Sawan Barwal Shatters National Marathon Record in Rotterdam

Sawan Barwal Shatters National Marathon Record in Rotterdam

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

Himachal Pradesh's Sawan Barwal broke the 48-year-old national marathon record at the NN Marathon Rotterdam, clocking 2:11:58 and surpassing Shivnath Singh's 1978 record.

From Widow's Bay to Raakh: Must Watch Shows of 2026 to Fill the Post-World Cup Void

From Widow's Bay to Raakh: Must Watch Shows of 2026 to Fill the Post-World Cup Void

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

As the FIFA World Cup concludes, we give you a curated list of the most impressive Hindi and English shows from 2026 to fill the OTT void.

'My Job Is With The Bat': Rohit Shuts Down Retirement Talk

'My Job Is With The Bat': Rohit Shuts Down Retirement Talk

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Rohit Sharma answered the retirement rumours in the best possible way - by smashing a record-breaking century at Lord's.

Beyond Harman: Mithali backs Smriti for ODI captaincy, Shafali for T20

Beyond Harman: Mithali backs Smriti for ODI captaincy, Shafali for T20

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Smriti Mandhana is more suited to lead India in the longer formats after Harmanpreet Kaur's tenure ends while the much younger Shafali Varma can be handed the reins of the T20 side following another pre-mature exit from the World Cup, former captain legendary Mithali Raj said.

Dev Meena's Coach-Inspired Record-Breaking Spree Continues

Dev Meena's Coach-Inspired Record-Breaking Spree Continues

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Madhya Pradesh pole vaulter Dev Meena has broken the national record for the fifth time in two years, clearing 5.46m at the National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships. He credited his coach, Ghanshyam Yadav, for consistently pushing him to aim for national records. Meena also successfully breached the Asian Games qualifying mark and has been named in the Indian squad for the upcoming Commonwealth Games.

Modi's New Zealand Visit: A New Era For India-Kiwi Relations

Modi's New Zealand Visit: A New Era For India-Kiwi Relations

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to New Zealand culminated in the elevation of bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, with a focus on doubling trade and enhancing cooperation in sports and the Indo-Pacific region. Modi and his counterpart Christopher Luxon attended a sports showcase, acknowledging a century of sporting ties and discussing future collaborations, including India's preparations for the Commonwealth Games 2030. The visit also saw 18 concrete outcomes and 10 agreements signed, alongside discussions with business leaders.

Junior Athletes Gear Up For National Athletics Meet

Junior Athletes Gear Up For National Athletics Meet

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The National Junior (U20) Athletics Federation competition is set to begin in Tumkur, Karnataka, with young athletes vying for a spot in the Asian U20 Athletics Championships in Hong Kong.

Iran Warns FIFA against unauthorised flags, slogans at World Cup games

Iran Warns FIFA against unauthorised flags, slogans at World Cup games

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Iran threatened to halt its matches at the World Cup if unauthorised flags are displayed or slogans targeting the national team are chanted at stadiums, Iranian media reported, citing Sports Minister Ahmad Donyamali, following criticism of the team's presence at the tournament.