News for 'National Performance Squad'

Sports Ministry Approves Indian Contingent For Commonwealth Games

Sports Ministry Approves Indian Contingent For Commonwealth Games

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The Sports Ministry has approved a 191-member Indian contingent for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, comprising 126 athletes and 51 officials. The Ministry has stipulated that expenses for Indian Olympic Association (IOA) Executive Committee members will not be covered by the government. Additionally, National Sports Federations are required to conduct background checks on their contingents, and a performance report must be submitted post-Games.

Nicolas Pepe's brace earns Ivory Coast World Cup knockout berth

Nicolas Pepe's brace earns Ivory Coast World Cup knockout berth

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Nicolas Pepe scored two goals to lead Ivory Coast to a 2-0 victory over Curacao, securing their first-ever qualification for the World Cup knockout phase. Curacao, the smallest nation to qualify, was eliminated. Ivory Coast will now face the second-place team from Group I (France or Norway) in Arlington, Texas.

FIFA World Cup: Mexico top group, coach refuses to celebrate early

FIFA World Cup: Mexico top group, coach refuses to celebrate early

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Mexico coach Javier Aguirre downplayed his team's achievement of topping their World Cup group, stating that true success would be measured later in the tournament. He highlighted the importance of playing at home and the team's improved maturity, while also reflecting on his own calmer coaching style. Aguirre expressed his ambition to guide Mexico into the world's top 10.

Mirabai Chanu Leads India's Strong Weightlifting Team To Glasgow

Mirabai Chanu Leads India's Strong Weightlifting Team To Glasgow

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Two-time Commonwealth Games champion Mirabai Chanu will lead India's weightlifting contingent at the upcoming Glasgow Commonwealth Games, which also features other medal winners and debutants, as India aims to continue its strong performance in the sport.

Pharaohs Prove Mettle With Impressive Belgium Draw

Pharaohs Prove Mettle With Impressive Belgium Draw

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Egypt's coach Hossam Hassan expressed pride in his team's performance after a 1-1 draw against Belgium in their World Cup opener. Despite coming close to a historic win, Hassan highlighted the team's quality, ambition, and the strong contributions of players like Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush, asserting that Egypt is not just there to "make up the numbers." The draw is seen as a significant step in reinventing the national team's identity.

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.

Why Preeti almost quit boxing before winning CWG gold

Why Preeti almost quit boxing before winning CWG gold

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Following her Commonwealth Games 2026 gold medal win, Indian boxer Preeti Pawar reflected on the learning experience that the event gave her ahead of the Asian Games this year and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics, the boxing culture in her hometown Bhiwani, known as 'Mini Cuba' for producing world-class talent and the fulfillment of her baklava promise after her medal win in Glasgow.

Modric vs Ronaldo at FIFA World Cup: Legends set for epic battle

Modric vs Ronaldo at FIFA World Cup: Legends set for epic battle

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Portugal and Croatia face off in a high-stakes Round of 32 clash in Toronto on Thursday, with Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric both eyeing a deep World Cup run in what could be the final chapter of their legendary international careers.

Ganguly 'surprised' by India's white-ball slump, backs team to bounce back

Ganguly 'surprised' by India's white-ball slump, backs team to bounce back

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly expressed surprise at India's recent white-ball slump, which saw them suffer a crushing 125-run defeat against England and a 0-2 series loss to Ireland, but backed the team to recover, while also commenting on his upcoming biopic 'Dada'.

15 saves! Curacao Goalkeeper Eloy Room Makes FIFA World Cup History

15 saves! Curacao Goalkeeper Eloy Room Makes FIFA World Cup History

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Curacao goalkeeper Eloy Room made 15 saves in the 0-0 draw with Ecuador -- the most in a 90-minute match in the World Cup history.

Manika Batra Demands Answers, Threatens Legal Action Over Asian Games Snub

Manika Batra Demands Answers, Threatens Legal Action Over Asian Games Snub

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Indian table tennis star Manika Batra has threatened legal action against the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) if she is not provided a 'factual explanation' for her omission from the Asian Games squad.

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.

How FIVB Recognition Elevates Prime Volleyball League's Global Stature

How FIVB Recognition Elevates Prime Volleyball League's Global Stature

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

The Prime Volleyball League (PVL) has been officially recognised by the FIVB as India's first division professional volleyball league, marking a significant milestone for the sport in the country. This recognition allows PVL clubs to compete in international tournaments and aligns the league with global standards. The fifth season of PVL is scheduled to begin on November 30, with a players' auction on August 17 in Goa. This development is expected to further strengthen Indian volleyball's performance on the international stage.

FIFA World Cup: 'Let's talk football': Vozinha shrugs off visa drama

FIFA World Cup: 'Let's talk football': Vozinha shrugs off visa drama

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha was not too keen to discuss it on Thursday but finally conceded he was very happy his mother had obtained a U.S. visa and would be able to watch him play against Uruguay in the World Cup this weekend.

Ancelotti arrived with hope, but Brazil's problems ran too deep

Ancelotti arrived with hope, but Brazil's problems ran too deep

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Brazil's World Cup campaign ended with a 2-1 defeat to Norway as Carlo Ancelotti's gamble on experienced stars backfired, exposing deeper structural issues and leaving the five-time champions facing a long road back to the summit of world football.

Kiran Pisda: From National Team Full-Back To Goalkeeper At Khelo India Tribal Games

Kiran Pisda: From National Team Full-Back To Goalkeeper At Khelo India Tribal Games

Rediff.com2 Apr 2026

Kiran Pisda, an Indian footballer with international experience, showcased her versatility by playing as a goalkeeper for Chhattisgarh in the Khelo India Tribal Games.

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.

What To Expect From India's Women's Hockey Team In Australia

What To Expect From India's Women's Hockey Team In Australia

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Salima Tete will lead the Indian women's hockey team in their upcoming tour of Australia, with Lalthantluangi and Shilpi Dabas receiving their first senior team call-ups.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Scandinavia split over Norway's signature Viking row celebration

FIFA World Cup 2026: Scandinavia split over Norway's signature Viking row celebration

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Norway's success at the World Cup has triggered euphoria at home, but the team's trademark "Viking row" celebration is beginning to test the patience of their Scandinavian neighbours, drawing shrugs from Sweden and envy from Denmark.

Gurnoor Brar: Why this 6'4 pacer is India's next big fast bowler

Gurnoor Brar: Why this 6'4 pacer is India's next big fast bowler

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

India fast bowler Gurnoor Brar has emerged as one of the country's promising pace prospects after a steady rise through college cricket and domestic performances, earning a call-up to the national setup ahead of India A's upcoming tour.

'BCCI has found its poster boy': Coach hails Sooryavanshi's India call-up

'BCCI has found its poster boy': Coach hails Sooryavanshi's India call-up

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's childhood coach Manish Ojha hailed the 15-year-old's historic India selection, saying the BCCI may have found the future 'poster boy' of Indian cricket after his record-breaking IPL season.

Pakistan announce T20 World Cup squad amid drama

Pakistan announce T20 World Cup squad amid drama

Rediff.com25 Jan 2026

After veiled boycott threat, Pakistan name 15-member squad for T20 World Cup.

Croatia bank on Modric for one last World Cup push

Croatia bank on Modric for one last World Cup push

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Luka Modric is expected to lead Croatia at what could be his final World Cup as Zlatko Dalic's side aim to continue their remarkable record of success on football's biggest stage despite fitness concerns over their captain.

My Dear Friend Garry Sobers

My Dear Friend Garry Sobers

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Sir Garfield Sobers, who passed into the ages on July 17, would have turned 90 today, July 28. Former Pakistan captain Intikhab Alam remembers a dear friend who he believes was 'undoubtedly the greatest cricketer the world has ever seen.'

Rajat Patidar stakes claim for spot in India T20 side with IPL special

Rajat Patidar stakes claim for spot in India T20 side with IPL special

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Rajat Patidar's explosive T20 form has sparked debate about his inclusion in India's T20 squad, with calls for his selection growing louder after a blistering innings in the IPL.

Authorities send kits made for junior teams to senior squad at AFC Asian Cup

Authorities send kits made for junior teams to senior squad at AFC Asian Cup

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

The Indian women's national football team has lodged a formal complaint with the AIFF regarding ill-fitting kits received just before their opening AFC Women's Asian Cup match in Australia, citing a lack of professionalism and disruption to their preparations.

FIFA World Cup: Canada sends clear warning ahead of Qatar clash

FIFA World Cup: Canada sends clear warning ahead of Qatar clash

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Canada's national football team is preparing for their World Cup Group B match against Qatar in Vancouver, aiming to improve on their opening draw with Bosnia & Herzegovina. Coach Jesse Marsch emphasizes setting the tone early and confirms Alphonso Davies' fitness for the crucial game.

Neymar returns for Brazil but there's a new Junior in town

Neymar returns for Brazil but there's a new Junior in town

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

Neymar Junior returned to international football after a 981-day absence, playing 20 minutes as a substitute in Brazil's 3-0 World Cup victory over Scotland.

Mumbai Indians' Coach Explains Team's IPL 2026 Struggles

Mumbai Indians' Coach Explains Team's IPL 2026 Struggles

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene reflects on the team's disappointing I_L 2026 season, citing a lack of individual brilliance and collective effort.

From FIFA World Cup title dreams to heartbreak for Germany

From FIFA World Cup title dreams to heartbreak for Germany

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Germany's World Cup campaign ended in a shocking penalty shootout loss to Paraguay, marking another early exit for the four-time champions. This defeat highlights a concerning pattern of underperformance in major tournaments since 2014, raising questions about coach Julian Nagelsmann's future and the team's overall direction.

No major changes as Pakistan name squad for Aus T20 series

No major changes as Pakistan name squad for Aus T20 series

Rediff.com23 Jan 2026

Shaheen Shah Afridi returns from injury and Babar Azam is recalled as Pakistan name their T20 squad for the home series against Australia in Lahore.

Iranian World Cup players will be able to enter US the day before matches

Iranian World Cup players will be able to enter US the day before matches

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Iran's national soccer team, currently training in Tijuana, Mexico, will be able to enter the US the day before each of their three World Cup matches, the Department of Homeland Security said on Tuesday.

How Brar, Suthar, Prince, Dubey Made It To Team India For Afghanistan Series

How Brar, Suthar, Prince, Dubey Made It To Team India For Afghanistan Series

Rediff.com19 May 2026

India's selectors have included Gurnoor Brar and Manav Suthar in the national squad for the upcoming Test and ODI series against Afghanistan, recognising their pace and spin capabilities.

Suryakumar dropped! Shreyas Iyer India's new T20 captain

Suryakumar dropped! Shreyas Iyer India's new T20 captain

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Shreyas Iyer has been named India's new T20I captain, replacing Suryakumar Yadav signalling a new era for Indian T20I cricket.

Kapil Dev urges patience with teen sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Kapil Dev urges patience with teen sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

Kapil Dev has urged patience with 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after his historic India call-up, while Madan Lal backed the teenage batting sensation to carry his IPL form onto the international stage.

Sharing Dressing Room With Kohli, Rohit A Dream Come True: Harsh Dubey

Sharing Dressing Room With Kohli, Rohit A Dream Come True: Harsh Dubey

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

India all-rounder Harsh Dubey recalls the emotional moment he learnt of his maiden national call-up and speaks about the prospect of sharing the dressing room with Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and captain Shubman Gill during the Afghanistan series.

Delhi High Court Affirms EFI's Asian Games Dressage Team Selection

Delhi High Court Affirms EFI's Asian Games Dressage Team Selection

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The Delhi High Court has upheld the Equestrian Federation of India's (EFI) selection process for the Asian Games dressage team, dismissing petitions from riders Anush Agarwalla and Sudipti Hajela. The court found no arbitrariness or procedural impropriety, reinforcing the principle that judicial interference in expert selection bodies is limited. Challenges regarding Minimum Eligibility Requirements (MERs), criteria interpretation, and bias were all rejected.

Lord's Test a very big moment for India women's team: Harmanpreet

Lord's Test a very big moment for India women's team: Harmanpreet

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

India captain Harmanpreet Kaur believes a victory in the historic Lord's Test against England would be a 'very big moment' for her side, helping them regain confidence after their T20 World Cup exit and marking a landmark achievement in women's cricket.

FIFA World Cup: USA face 'very tough' Paraguay test in opener

FIFA World Cup: USA face 'very tough' Paraguay test in opener

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Pochettino expects a "very tough game" against Paraguay, praising their aggression and discipline.

India T20 Captaincy: Suryakumar Yadav out, Shreyas Iyer Or Tilak Varma in?

India T20 Captaincy: Suryakumar Yadav out, Shreyas Iyer Or Tilak Varma in?

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Suryakumar Yadav is expected to be removed as India's T20 captain due to a prolonged period of poor form. Shreyas Iyer and Tilak Varma are the leading contenders to take over, with discussions ongoing within the BCCI and selection committee, including head coach Gautam Gambhir's preferences.