News for 'National Games'

10 Takeaways From 2026 FIFA World Cup

10 Takeaways From 2026 FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

The 10 takeaways from the FIFA World Cup, which was co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

How The World Cup Is Fueling California's Soccer Growth

How The World Cup Is Fueling California's Soccer Growth

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The San Jose Earthquakes, despite their strong season, are making way for the U.S. national team as California hosts World Cup knockout matches. This event is seen as a significant opportunity to showcase soccer's global appeal and accelerate its growth in the state, which already boasts a thriving football culture driven by its diverse population and numerous professional teams.

'Find it odd': Rahane reacts to Samson's snub

'Find it odd': Rahane reacts to Samson's snub

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane has voiced his surprise and concern over the exclusion of wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson from India's T20I squad for the upcoming Zimbabwe tour, urging selectors to communicate their decision to the player.

Why India Is Now A High-Risk Doping Nation

Why India Is Now A High-Risk Doping Nation

Rediff.com20 Apr 2026

India has been designated as a country with an 'extremely high' risk of doping by World Athletics, leading to more stringent anti-doping measures for Indian athletes.

Argentina Players Display Political Banner After World Cup Victory, Spark Row

Argentina Players Display Political Banner After World Cup Victory, Spark Row

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Argentina's football players displayed a political banner claiming "The Falklands are Argentine" after their World Cup semi-final win against England, potentially violating FIFA's code of conduct.

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.

Indian Women's Hockey Team Eyes Undefeated Pool Run Against Uruguay

Indian Women's Hockey Team Eyes Undefeated Pool Run Against Uruguay

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

The Indian women's hockey team, having already secured a semifinal spot in the FIH Nations Cup, is set to face lower-ranked Uruguay in their final pool match. India aims to maintain their undefeated record and bolster confidence, especially as winning this tournament is crucial for their return to the elite FIH Pro League after being relegated last season. Coach Sjoerd Marijne hopes for improved field goal conversions and may experiment with combinations ahead of the World Cup and Asian Games.

NRAI honours Jaspal Rana, Raja Randhir Singh by naming India Open events after them

NRAI honours Jaspal Rana, Raja Randhir Singh by naming India Open events after them

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) on Tuesday announced that the India Open Competitions in July will be named in honour of legendary shooters Jaspal Rana and Raja Randhir Singh, who died recently, leaving the fraternity shocked.

FIFA World Cup: 'In our hearts you won': Swiss fans back team

FIFA World Cup: 'In our hearts you won': Swiss fans back team

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Swiss football fans expressed pride in their national team despite a 3-1 defeat to Argentina in the World Cup quarter-finals, marking the end of an 'exceptional campaign' that captivated the country.

Noskova ends Kostyuk's run, sets up first all-Czech Wimbledon final

Noskova ends Kostyuk's run, sets up first all-Czech Wimbledon final

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Linda Noskova defeated Marta Kostyuk in straight sets to reach her maiden Grand Slam final, setting up a historic all-Czech Wimbledon title clash against compatriot Karolina Muchova and extending Czech dominance.

Brazil vs Japan:FIFA World Cup Blockbuster Awaits

Brazil vs Japan:FIFA World Cup Blockbuster Awaits

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Japan's national football team, the Samurai Blue, faces Brazil in a crucial World Cup last-32 match. This encounter holds deep significance due to Brazil's profound influence on Japanese professional football, particularly through the J-League and the presence of numerous Brazilian players and coaches over the decades. Despite past successes against Brazil, including a recent friendly win, this World Cup clash represents a major test for Japan's ambitions.

FIFA World Cup: Argentina's bizarre ritual to stop Kane before semis

FIFA World Cup: Argentina's bizarre ritual to stop Kane before semis

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Ahead of their World Cup semi-final clash against England, Argentina fans are engaging in traditional 'cabalas' or superstitions, including freezing captain Harry Kane's name, to bring their national team good fortune on the pitch.

Before me, Portugal hadn't won a single title: Cristiano Ronaldo

Before me, Portugal hadn't won a single title: Cristiano Ronaldo

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo expressed sadness after Portugal's World Cup exit following a 1-0 loss to Spain, stating he gave his all and is leaving with a clear conscience, but will take time to reflect on his international future.

Noskova stuns Keys, storms into Wimbledon last 8

Noskova stuns Keys, storms into Wimbledon last 8

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Linda Noskova, a rising Czech tennis star, defeated American Madison Keys in straight sets to reach the Wimbledon quarter-finals for the first time. The 21-year-old showcased her growing maturity on grass, overcoming a mid-set wobble to secure her spot in the last eight, continuing a strong tradition of Czech players at the All England Club.

National Surf and SUP Championship to Showcase India's Elite Athletes

National Surf and SUP Championship to Showcase India's Elite Athletes

Rediff.com31 Mar 2026

India's top surfers and stand-up paddlers will compete in the inaugural Little Andaman Pro 2026 National Surf and SUP Championship, held in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands from April 9 to 12. The event, organised by the Surfing Federation of India (SFI), aims to provide crucial competition experience ahead of the Asian Games.

Memes, Music and Mockery: How Gen Z amplifying CJP protest

Memes, Music and Mockery: How Gen Z amplifying CJP protest

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Gen Z protesters are using memes, music, and sarcastic humour on social media platforms like Instagram and X to demand Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation over the NEET question paper leak and other examination irregularities.

Climate Change Threatens World Cup Match Safety

Climate Change Threatens World Cup Match Safety

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

A World Cup game between Paraguay and France in Philadelphia is at risk due to extreme heat and humidity, linked to climate change and fossil fuel use. A heat dome over the U.S. and Canada has pushed temperatures beyond safe play recommendations, raising concerns about player safety and future tournament scheduling.

They made me better: Prabhsimran credits Yuvraj, Ponting for India breakthrough

They made me better: Prabhsimran credits Yuvraj, Ponting for India breakthrough

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Prabhsimran Singh credited mentor Yuvraj Singh's tactical guidance and Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting's unwavering faith for his growth, saying both played a pivotal role in earning his maiden India T20I call-up.

Krishna Jayasankar Targets National Outdoor Shot Put Record After Indoor Success

Krishna Jayasankar Targets National Outdoor Shot Put Record After Indoor Success

Rediff.com11 Apr 2026

Indian shot putter Krishna Jayasankar is aiming to break the national outdoor record after setting a national indoor record in the USA. She is training to qualify for the Commonwealth and Asian Games.

Manika Batra calls on PM, Sports Min on 'unfair' Asiad omission

Manika Batra calls on PM, Sports Min on 'unfair' Asiad omission

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Manika Batra took to X, voicing her concerns over the TTFI's decision on her non-inclusion in the Asian Games squad.

From 'Wonderwall' to K-Pop: The music behind the FIFA World Cup roar

From 'Wonderwall' to K-Pop: The music behind the FIFA World Cup roar

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Watching the World Cup and hearing the music in the stadium may have left you wondering - how is that chosen? Is it just coincidence that "Wonderwall" plays after England matches? Are "Freed from Desire" or "Livin' on a Prayer" always played? And why?

At 15, Sooryavanshi Shatters Sachin's 37-Year-Old Record

At 15, Sooryavanshi Shatters Sachin's 37-Year-Old Record

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, at just 15 years and 91 days, has become the youngest player to represent India in international cricket, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's 37-year-old record. He also set a new benchmark as the youngest T20I debutant from a Full Member nation, making his debut against Ireland in Belfast.

Coach Sarfaraz Ahmed addresses Pakistan's fitness concerns ahead of key tours

Coach Sarfaraz Ahmed addresses Pakistan's fitness concerns ahead of key tours

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Pakistan's Test team head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed has acknowledged ongoing fitness issues within the squad, despite a recent training camp. A new conditioning camp is planned to address these concerns before the team's crucial tours to the Caribbean and England. New Test captain Babar Azam is focused on improving fitness and discipline for better performance in red-ball cricket.

India Bids to Host Prestigious World Mind Games

India Bids to Host Prestigious World Mind Games

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

The International Mind Sports Association (IMSA) has invited bids from India and other countries to host the next edition of the World Mind Games, scheduled for later this year or early 2027, capitalising on the growing popularity of chess and other mind sports in India.

FIFA World Cup: 'Now everybody knows where Cabo Verde is'

FIFA World Cup: 'Now everybody knows where Cabo Verde is'

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Cabo Verde's World Cup dream ended in defeat, but their story had already become one of the tournament's defining moments. After the debutants stretched defending champions Argentina to extra time, football greats Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thierry Henry saluted the tiny island nation for proving that belief can outweigh size and reputation.

Plucky Spain throttle France to reach World Cup final

Plucky Spain throttle France to reach World Cup final

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Mikel Oyarzabal scored from the penalty spot and Pedro Porro added another goal as Spain advanced to its first World Cup final since winning in 2010 with a 2-0 victory over France on Tuesday.

India's T20 Experiments End In Disaster

India's T20 Experiments End In Disaster

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

The umbrella of 'inexperience' or 'reset' is merely an excuse. Team India's think-tank will have to admit that this is experimentation without a roadmap, points out K R Nayar.

Injury scare! Senegal's Mendy ruled out of FIFA World Cup

Injury scare! Senegal's Mendy ruled out of FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Senegal's goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has been ruled out of Friday's World Cup match against Iraq due to a knee injury sustained during a recent loss to Norway. Medical examinations are ongoing to assess the full extent of the ligament issue. Both Senegal and Iraq are entering the Group I game with two losses each.

Mirabai Chanu Eyes Elusive Asian Games Medal

Mirabai Chanu Eyes Elusive Asian Games Medal

Rediff.com26 Mar 2026

Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu is determined to win a medal at the Asian Games, the only major title missing from her collection. She also spoke about the importance of the Khelo India Tribal Games.

Time For India To Unleash Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Time For India To Unleash Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

After yet another failure for Sanju Samson -- his third in a row -- 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could make his India debut in the second T20I against England on Saturday.

Punjab, UP, MP Secure Semifinal Berths at Hockey India Sub Junior National Championship

Punjab, UP, MP Secure Semifinal Berths at Hockey India Sub Junior National Championship

Rediff.com9 Apr 2026

Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh secured victories in their respective quarterfinal matches at the 16th Hockey India Sub Junior National Championship in Rajgir.

'We can hurt Argentina': Cape Verde coach declares

'We can hurt Argentina': Cape Verde coach declares

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Cape Verde head into the biggest match in their football history full of belief, with coach Pedro Leitao Brito insisting his side will play "with courage" against defending champions Argentina in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32.

'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.

Rohit Yadav Surpasses Neeraj Chopra in Global List with 87.05m Throw

Rohit Yadav Surpasses Neeraj Chopra in Global List with 87.05m Throw

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Rohit Yadav lit up Bhubaneswar's Kalinga Stadium with a career-best throw of 87.05m in the men's javelin throw on the concluding day of the 65th National Inter-State Senior Athletics Championships.

How Djed Spence Silenced Critics With Impactful World Cup Performances

How Djed Spence Silenced Critics With Impactful World Cup Performances

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Djed Spence, initially a controversial World Cup squad selection and criticised for his early performance, has emerged as a crucial impact substitute for England. His pace, energy, and passion off the bench have silenced critics, playing a vital role in England's progression to the semi-finals despite a broken jaw.

Wimbledon 2026: Fery shocks Cobolli, sets up semifinal clash with Zverev

Wimbledon 2026: Fery shocks Cobolli, sets up semifinal clash with Zverev

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

Britain's Arthur Fery became only the fourth wildcard to reach the men's singles semifinals at a Grand Slam as his dream Wimbledon run continued with a 6-4, 7-6(4), 6-0 victory over Italian ninth seed Flavio Cobolli on Wednesday.

2030 CWG in Ahmedabad to host 17 sports at massive cost savings

2030 CWG in Ahmedabad to host 17 sports at massive cost savings

Rediff.com22 Jun 2026

Seventeen sports will feature at the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, which is set to be staged at around 60 per cent lower cost than previous editions as part of the Commonwealth Sport's revamped hosting model.

England hit by boos and chaos ahead of FIFA World Cup in Mexico

England hit by boos and chaos ahead of FIFA World Cup in Mexico

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

England's football team received a hostile welcome upon arriving at their Mexico City hotel for their FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against hosts Mexico. Fans used loudspeakers and chants to disrupt their sleep, a tactic previously used against Ecuador. Security has been heightened following disturbances and post-victory violence. The match is set to kick off as scheduled despite weather concerns.

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.

Pakistan Hockey Federation To Revamp Structure After FIH Pro League Debacle

Pakistan Hockey Federation To Revamp Structure After FIH Pro League Debacle

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) is undertaking a significant restructuring of its national hockey programme following a dismal performance in the FIH Pro League, where the team failed to win any matches, including two losses to India. The PHF plans to hire foreign coaches and trainers from countries like Australia, Netherlands, or Germany to develop players at all levels and modernise the sport in Pakistan.