News for 'National Games'

Mirage 2000 'Turned The Tide' Of Kargil War

Mirage 2000 'Turned The Tide' Of Kargil War

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

How the Indian Air Force's strategic deployment of Mirage 2000 jets and precision laser-guided bombs during Operation Safed Sagar delivered a 'decisive and crushing blow' to the enemy, playing a pivotal role in India's victory in the 1999 Kargil War.

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.

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.

Manolo Marquez: World Cup expansion dilutes quality, India needs grassroots focus

Manolo Marquez: World Cup expansion dilutes quality, India needs grassroots focus

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Spanish football coach Manolo Marquez has criticised the expansion of the FIFA World Cup, arguing it compromises quality and that countries like India should prioritise grassroots development over relying on increased qualification slots. He also highlighted the impact of naturalised players on international competition, citing his experience with the Indian team.

Mohanlal@World Cup Final: 'Thank You, Football'

Mohanlal@World Cup Final: 'Thank You, Football'

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final saw a galaxy of stars on the field and off it.

Can Harmanpreet end India's 50-year hockey World Cup medal drought?

Can Harmanpreet end India's 50-year hockey World Cup medal drought?

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Indian men's hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh believes his side is capable of ending the country's five-decade-long World Cup medal drought, drawing parallels with the team's success at the Tokyo Olympics.

Saffron jersey row deepens rift within Hockey India

Saffron jersey row deepens rift within Hockey India

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

A controversy has erupted within Hockey India over the national teams' new saffron jerseys, replacing the traditional blue.

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.

Who replaces Washington? India face major selection test

Who replaces Washington? India face major selection test

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

Indian selectors face a selection dilemma for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, with Washington Sundar unlikely to be fit for the first Test, while senior all-rounder Hardik Pandya is set to return to white-ball cricket from August after recovering from injury.

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.

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.

'Argentina are a real nuisance': Del Bosque warns Spain

'Argentina are a real nuisance': Del Bosque warns Spain

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Former Spain manager Vicente del Bosque has cautioned the Spanish national team against underestimating Argentina in the upcoming World Cup final, labelling them a "real nuisance" and highlighting their experience and tactical prowess.

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.

Infantino's FIFA future in jeopardy after World Cup stake sale gamble backfires

Infantino's FIFA future in jeopardy after World Cup stake sale gamble backfires

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino's ambitious plan to sell a 20% stake in a commercial entity managing the World Cup and other tournaments to private investors has been abandoned following widespread opposition, including a boycott threat from UEFA.

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.

La Liga's Tebas: FIFA's Infantino 'Should Quit' Over 'Destroying Football Industry'

La Liga's Tebas: FIFA's Infantino 'Should Quit' Over 'Destroying Football Industry'

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

La Liga president Javier Tebas has called for FIFA president Gianni Infantino to resign, accusing the global governing body of 'destroying the football industry' through the expansion of international competitions at the expense of domestic leagues and clubs. Tebas also criticised the handling of a US player's ban and the proposed expansion of the men's World Cup.

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.

Changes to World Cup formats make sense but associate teams need more: Ashwin

Changes to World Cup formats make sense but associate teams need more: Ashwin

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

India's spin maestro Ravichandran Ashwin has urged the ICC to integrate lower-ranked teams into every bilateral series, arguing that this is crucial for the sport's global expansion, beyond just expanding World Cup formats.

The Untold Story Behind Auqib Nabi's Historic India Test Call-Up

The Untold Story Behind Auqib Nabi's Historic India Test Call-Up

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Auqib Nabi, a right-arm pacer from Jammu and Kashmir, has made history by becoming the first cricketer from the region to be named in India's Test squad, earning a call-up for the tour of Sri Lanka after a remarkable domestic season.

Sawan Barwal Shatters National Marathon Record in Rotterdam

Sawan Barwal Shatters National Marathon Record in Rotterdam

Rediff.com12 Apr 2026

Sawan Barwal broke the national marathon record at the NN Marathon Rotterdam, clocking 2 hours 11 minutes and 58 seconds, surpassing the previous record set in 1978.

'No reason' Virat, Rohit should miss 2027 World Cup

'No reason' Virat, Rohit should miss 2027 World Cup

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Former Pakistan captain Zaheer Abbas has expressed strong belief in Indian batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, stating they still have significant contributions to make and should feature in upcoming ODI World Cups. He emphasised their skill, experience, and fitness as key factors, dismissing age as a barrier. Abbas also touched upon the importance of traditional batting techniques and offered thoughts on Pakistan cricket.

Haryana's Wrestling Prowess On Display At National Tournament

Haryana's Wrestling Prowess On Display At National Tournament

Rediff.com10 May 2026

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) President Sanjay Singh highlighted the significant participation of Haryana wrestlers in the National Open Ranking Tournament, countering claims of bias. However, the event was also marred by the discovery of used syringes, underscoring the ongoing doping challenges in Indian wrestling.

Oliver Kahn Calls For Faster VAR Decisions, Questions 48-Team World Cup

Oliver Kahn Calls For Faster VAR Decisions, Questions 48-Team World Cup

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Legendary German goalkeeper Oliver Kahn has voiced his opinions on the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, advocating for quicker decisions by relying more on Video Operation Room officials rather than on-field referees reviewing screens. He also expressed mixed feelings about the proposed 48-team World Cup format, acknowledging opportunities for smaller nations but warning against potential dilution of quality.

Messi statue becomes focal point of celebrations after Argentina beat England

Messi statue becomes focal point of celebrations after Argentina beat England

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Argentina has advanced to the World Cup final after defeating long-time rivals England with two late goals, sparking widespread celebrations across the country, particularly in Cutral Co, Patagonia, home to a new 85-foot statue of Lionel Messi.

Govt ready for debate in Parliament over paper leak, says Nadda; slams Rahul

Govt ready for debate in Parliament over paper leak, says Nadda; slams Rahul

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Union minister J P Nadda on Wednesday accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of playing politics over the NEET paper leak and urged the Opposition to allow an "intensive" discussion on the issue in Parliament to find a "permanent solution" to the problem, instead of indulging in a blame game.

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

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

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

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.

India Launches Initiatives To Boost 2030 Commonwealth Games Bid

India Launches Initiatives To Boost 2030 Commonwealth Games Bid

Rediff.com12 May 2026

The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has launched three nationwide engagement initiatives, including a reel-making contest, to build momentum for Ahmedabad's bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games.

Fans go wild! Fireworks, tears as Spain wins World Cup

Fans go wild! Fireworks, tears as Spain wins World Cup

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Thousands of fans across Spain erupted in joyous celebrations, dancing in the streets, setting off fireworks, and launching red flares, after La Roja secured their second World Cup title with a 1-0 victory over Argentina.

Ranbir Kapoor Is Lord Ram; Who's Playing Whom In Ramayana?

Ranbir Kapoor Is Lord Ram; Who's Playing Whom In Ramayana?

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

From Arun Govil and Shobana to Vivek Oberoi and Kajal Aggarwal, meet the sprawling supporting cast bringing Nitesh Tiwari's Ramayana to life.

Sreejesh: 'We have played in blue in almost every major tournament'

Sreejesh: 'We have played in blue in almost every major tournament'

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Legendary Indian hockey player P R Sreejesh has urged the men's team to ignore the ongoing jersey colour controversy and focus on ending the 50-year World Cup medal drought. He dismissed concerns about the saffron jersey, noting past colour changes, but questioned the visibility argument. Sreejesh emphasised that if players approved the change, the debate should cease, and politics should be kept out of sports. He also expressed confidence in the team's ability to perform despite the off-field distractions.

Ajinkya Rahane Leaves Behind a Legacy Built on Grace, Grit and Gabba

Ajinkya Rahane Leaves Behind a Legacy Built on Grace, Grit and Gabba

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Ajinkya Rahane's retirement prompts a reflection on his remarkable career, marked by India's historic Gabba triumph, his quiet leadership, and a lingering question: was he an under-achiever or simply under-appreciated in the Indian cricketing ecosystem?

Historic! Paddlers Manav Thakkar-Manush Shah rise to World No. 2

Historic! Paddlers Manav Thakkar-Manush Shah rise to World No. 2

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Guided by Indian table tennis legend Sharath Kamal, the duo have established themselves among the world's elite through a series of impressive performances on the WTT circuit.

'BJP Feels They Can Get Away With Anything'

'BJP Feels They Can Get Away With Anything'

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

'I remember that Indira Gandhi was virtually worshipped as a goddess. The kind of power wielded by Indira Gandhi in the early 1970s was much more than what Modi does today, but in just three years down the line Indira Gandhi faced defeat.' 'So you cannot take people's sentiments for granted. That is a lesson that the BJP should learn.'

Indian Boxers' Games Hopes In Doubt After Omission

Indian Boxers' Games Hopes In Doubt After Omission

Rediff.com2 May 2026

Forty Indian boxers face uncertainty after being omitted from the Sports Authority of India's sanction letter for the national camp, jeopardising their participation in the Commonwealth and Asian Games selection process.

Former India Coach Constantine Weighs In On Messi's Legacy

Former India Coach Constantine Weighs In On Messi's Legacy

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Former India coach Stephen Constantine shares his views on Lionel Messi, ranking him below Pele, Maradona, and Ronaldinho due to his reliance on teammates for defensive work. He also predicts Spain will win the upcoming final against Argentina, despite acknowledging Argentina's experience and Messi's match-winning ability. Constantine further discusses England's semi-final exit and criticises hydration breaks and refereeing controversies.

Court Questions WFI Over Vinesh Phogat's Ineligibility For Asian Games

Court Questions WFI Over Vinesh Phogat's Ineligibility For Asian Games

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Delhi High Court has criticised the Wrestling Federation of India for declaring Vinesh Phogat ineligible for domestic events and has asked the Centre to form an expert panel to evaluate her participation in the upcoming Asian Games selection trials.

Shocking! World No 6 Zoravar Sandhu Excluded From Asian Games Squad

Shocking! World No 6 Zoravar Sandhu Excluded From Asian Games Squad

Rediff.com13 May 2026

Asia No. 1 trap shooter Zoravar Singh Sandhu has been left out of the Indian shotgun contingent for the Asian Games, despite his World Championships bronze medal and top international scores.

National Armwrestling Championship To Be Held At Rashtriya Raksha University

National Armwrestling Championship To Be Held At Rashtriya Raksha University

Rediff.com22 May 2026

The Rashtriya Raksha University will host the 4th National Armwrestling and Para Armwrestling Championship from May 29 to June 2 at its Lavad campus here, officials said on Friday. The championship is jointly organized by the Armwrestling Federation of Gujarat and People's Armwrestling Federation India.

Parthiv Patel Backs Rohit Sharma To Deliver Defining Hundred

Parthiv Patel Backs Rohit Sharma To Deliver Defining Hundred

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Former India player Parthiv Patel has expressed confidence that Rohit Sharma will silence critics with a defining century in the series-deciding third ODI against England, amidst speculation that it could be his last international game. Reports suggest selectors have indicated Rohit is not in their plans for the 2027 World Cup, leading to retirement or dropping possibilities.

Ganguly, Anjum Chopra, Pietersen inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

Ganguly, Anjum Chopra, Pietersen inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Former Indian captains Sourav Ganguly and Anjum Chopra, along with ex-England skipper Kevin Pietersen, have been inducted into the International Cricket Council's prestigious Hall of Fame during a ceremony in Edinburgh, recognising their significant contributions to the sport.