News for 'PLAY'

'I can play cricket again': Anaya Bangar gets Cricket Australia eligibility boost

'I can play cricket again': Anaya Bangar gets Cricket Australia eligibility boost

Rediff.com3 days ago

Former Mumbai U-19 cricketer Anaya Bangar can play elite women's cricket in Australia from March 2027, subject to Cricket Australia's eligibility criteria.

Lata song played at Shinde's event instead of Vande Mataram

Lata song played at Shinde's event instead of Vande Mataram

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

A Hindi song with a 'Vande Mataram' refrain, not the official national song, was played at a government event in Thane attended by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who subsequently directed organisers to adhere strictly to the approved version.

'He Might Want To Play IPL, But Don't Go There'

'He Might Want To Play IPL, But Don't Go There'

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

'All the young players might want to play the shorter format, but India should be looking to preserve him for the Test format.'

Kuldeep Should Be Playing Regularly: Harbhajan

Kuldeep Should Be Playing Regularly: Harbhajan

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

'If I was with the team, I would pick bowlers who I feel can pick wickets and win matches for me with the ball.'

Kit Harington To Play Gilderoy Lockhart In Harry Potter Season 2

Kit Harington To Play Gilderoy Lockhart In Harry Potter Season 2

Rediff.com4 days ago

Kit Harington replaces Nicholas Hoult as Gilderoy Lockhart in Season 2 of HBO's Harry Potter series.

'He can play for India for long': Gill on Suthar

'He can play for India for long': Gill on Suthar

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Young left-arm spinner Manav Suthar's magnificent 10-wicket match haul and Devdutt Padikkal's century spearheaded India's dominant 165-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test, with skipper Shubman Gill praising Suthar's long-term potential for Indian cricket.

Should Sarfaraz Khan Make India's Playing XI at Galle?

Should Sarfaraz Khan Make India's Playing XI at Galle?

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

As India prepares for their two-match Test series against Sri Lanka starting August 15, the team management faces critical decisions regarding their playing XI to bolster their World Test Championship 2027 final aspirations.

Ronaldinho unsure of playing role at Italian club Ravenna FC

Ronaldinho unsure of playing role at Italian club Ravenna FC

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Brazil football icon Ronaldinho has arrived in Italy after joining Serie C club Ravenna FC, where he has also taken a stake. While his last competitive match was in 2015.

Siddharth: 'I've Never Played A Fighter Pilot Before'

Siddharth: 'I've Never Played A Fighter Pilot Before'

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

'I don't need to wait for work to find me. I can find stories that excite me and make them myself.'

The Man Who Always Played A Woman

The Man Who Always Played A Woman

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

'We often lament that even now no mainstream actor wants to come out as openly gay. But Chapal Bhaduri has not hidden his sexuality. He has been open about his relationship with a man for decades. He could well be our first out mainstream actor.'

Badminton star Antonsen says India Open should be played outside Delhi winter

Badminton star Antonsen says India Open should be played outside Delhi winter

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

World No. 4 badminton player Anders Antonsen has called for the India Open tournament to be moved from its traditional January-February slot due to severe winter pollution in New Delhi. He described the conditions as "insane" and "not pleasant to play in," causing a burning sensation and poor visibility. Antonsen believes the current time of year is much better for hosting such events.

'Let him play': Rahane's big message to BCCI on Rohit

'Let him play': Rahane's big message to BCCI on Rohit

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Ajinkya Rahane has backed Rohit Sharma to play for India at the 2027 ODI World Cup, urging the BCCI to give the veteran opener clarity over his future.

Afghanistan secure 2027 World Cup spot, West Indies to play qualifiers

Afghanistan secure 2027 World Cup spot, West Indies to play qualifiers

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Afghanistan has secured automatic qualification for the 2027 Cricket World Cup after defeating Ireland, while the West Indies, ranked 10th, will once again have to navigate qualifiers for the third consecutive edition of the tournament.

Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova plays it cool ahead of US Open challenge

Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova plays it cool ahead of US Open challenge

Rediff.com15 hours ago

Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova enters the US Open with a low-key mindset, insisting her breakthrough Grand Slam victory has not changed her approach or added pressure.

Actor Sam Dastor, Who Played Gandhi Twice, Passes Away

Actor Sam Dastor, Who Played Gandhi Twice, Passes Away

Rediff.com7 Aug 2026

Sam Dastor, the British-Indian actor who was considered for the lead role in Richard Attenborough's 'Gandhi' and later played Mahatma Gandhi twice in other productions, has passed away at the age of 84.

Will Mohammad Amir Play IPL? He Finally Responds

Will Mohammad Amir Play IPL? He Finally Responds

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir, now eligible for the IPL due to his British citizenship, has stated he is keeping his options open regarding participation. While confirming his involvement in the PSL from 2027 as an overseas player, Amir remained non-committal about playing in the IPL, despite his new eligibility allowing him to play as a British overseas player.

Why Harbhajan Wants Vicky Kaushal To Play His Role In Biopic

Why Harbhajan Wants Vicky Kaushal To Play His Role In Biopic

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh attributes his illustrious career, including over 400 Test wickets and India's first Test hat-trick, to divine will and the sacrifices of his family, stating, 'To think that I am important was such a big illusion. Because whatever I became was Waheguru's blessing'.

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.

IPL Teams Pressuring Indian Players To Play Despite Injuries, Claims BCCI Source

IPL Teams Pressuring Indian Players To Play Despite Injuries, Claims BCCI Source

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

A source at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru has expressed significant concerns regarding players competing in the Indian Premier League while injured, attributing this to franchise and financial pressures, which subsequently complicates their rehabilitation and return to international cricket.

I would like to play for India in all formats: Ravichandran Smaran

I would like to play for India in all formats: Ravichandran Smaran

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Ravichandran Smaran, the highest run-scorer in the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy season, is focused on maintaining his form and securing a national call-up.

India set to play three left-arm spinners in 1st Test vs Sri Lanka in Galle

India set to play three left-arm spinners in 1st Test vs Sri Lanka in Galle

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Bowling coach Morne Morkel has indicated that India might field three left-arm spinners - Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, and Manav Suthar - in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.

'Can't play forever': Rohit's 2027 World Cup future in doubt

'Can't play forever': Rohit's 2027 World Cup future in doubt

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden has commented on Rohit Sharma's future in international cricket, particularly concerning the 2027 World Cup. Hayden believes Sharma's decision will hinge on his continued hunger and energy, given his retirement from Tests and T20Is, and the demanding schedule of both IPL and ODI cricket. Despite age-related questions, Sharma has continued to deliver strong performances, notably a century against England.

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.

Brazil Football Team Likely To Play Friendly In Kolkata In October

Brazil Football Team Likely To Play Friendly In Kolkata In October

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is in advanced negotiations to bring its national football team to Kolkata, India, for a friendly match in early October, marking a significant event for the region's large Brazilian fan base.

Tilak Varma: 'My play is based on conditions and match situations'

Tilak Varma: 'My play is based on conditions and match situations'

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

India T20 vice-captain Tilak Varma stated that his batting approach is dictated by conditions and match situations, especially after the team's struggles with early wickets in the UK and Ireland. He emphasised the responsibility of playing for the country and adapting to overseas conditions after extensive play in Asia.

Playing The Victim Card Won't Work On Gen Z

Playing The Victim Card Won't Work On Gen Z

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Every day, the older men running our politics keep pushing Gen Z voters further away, observes Binu Alex.

'Rohit good enough to play for couple of years'

'Rohit good enough to play for couple of years'

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Lalchand Rajput, Rohit Sharma's early mentor, believes the former India captain is 'good enough to play for a couple of years', attributing his current struggles to natural 'wear and tear'.

Poppy Jabbal Doesn't Play It Safe

Poppy Jabbal Doesn't Play It Safe

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Poppy Jabbal has never been one to play it safe. From quirky styling choices to unexpected pairings, her wardrobe is as fearless as her personality.

With New Zealand series in mind, BCCI to arrange County stint for pacer Auqib Nabi

With New Zealand series in mind, BCCI to arrange County stint for pacer Auqib Nabi

Rediff.com22 hours ago

The BCCI is arranging short-term county cricket contracts for talented Indian pacers like Auqib Nabi to prepare them for future international tours, specifically eyeing India's Test series in New Zealand. This initiative aims to provide red-ball experience and exposure to different conditions.

Gill's Sister's Fun Rakhi Post, Sachin's Heartfelt Wish

Gill's Sister's Fun Rakhi Post, Sachin's Heartfelt Wish

Rediff.com6 hours ago

Indian cricket stars Shubman Gill and Sachin Tendulkar shared heartwarming messages and posts on Raksha Bandhan, celebrating their sibling bonds. Gill's sister, Shahneel, posted a playful message, while Tendulkar shared a heartfelt tribute to his sister.

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.com1 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.

British Masters: Indian Golfers Face Delays As Rain Disrupts Opening Day

British Masters: Indian Golfers Face Delays As Rain Disrupts Opening Day

Rediff.com1 days ago

The first day of the Husqvarna British Masters was severely disrupted by persistent rain and storms, preventing Indian golfers Shubhankar Sharma and Yuvraj Sandhu from teeing off. Northern Ireland's Tom McKibbin took an early lead before play was suspended due to weather.

Gary Kirsten tips Dhruv Jurel as a world-class Test prospect

Gary Kirsten tips Dhruv Jurel as a world-class Test prospect

Rediff.com1 days ago

Sri Lanka coach Gary Kirsten praised Sonal Dinusha's twin centuries and pressure-handling ability, while calling India's Dhruv Jurel a world-class player with superb technique and short-ball skills.

Who is Dev Chaudhary, the cricketer at the centre of DPL controversy?

Who is Dev Chaudhary, the cricketer at the centre of DPL controversy?

Rediff.com3 days ago

The Delhi & Districts Cricket Association (DDCA) is set to review a controversial rule allowing DPL franchises to pick three local league players outside the auction, following widespread disrepute caused by the inclusion of cricketer Dev Chaudhary in the New Delhi Tigers squad.

Why Couldn't India Get Dinusha Out?

Why Couldn't India Get Dinusha Out?

Rediff.com1 days ago

'Every batter has a shortcoming somewhere. You need to find where the shortcoming is.'

Indian Chess Star Divya Deshmukh Set For Global Chess League Debut

Indian Chess Star Divya Deshmukh Set For Global Chess League Debut

Rediff.com1 days ago

Indian chess prodigy Divya Deshmukh, an Arjuna Award recipient, is set to make her debut in the Tech Mahindra Global Chess League Season 4 with defending champions Alpine Pipers. She will join a star-studded team including Magnus Carlsen, Anish Giri, and Vidit Gujrathi, expressing excitement for the rapid chess format and playing in front of a home crowd.

India's Junior Women's Hockey Squad Ready For Asia Cup Challenge

India's Junior Women's Hockey Squad Ready For Asia Cup Challenge

Rediff.com3 hours ago

The Indian women's junior hockey team, led by Khaidem Shileima Chanu and coached by Tim White, is set to compete in the AHF Women's Junior Asia Cup in Moqi, China, from September 4 to 13. The team has undergone extensive preparations, including an exposure tour to the UK and matches against an India A side, and is confident of a strong performance against top Asian rivals.

Stronger and wiser: Anaya Bangar opens up on lonely journey back to cricket

Stronger and wiser: Anaya Bangar opens up on lonely journey back to cricket

Rediff.com21 hours ago

Anaya Bangar says her difficult transition journey made her stronger and wiser, with Cricket Australia's clearance giving her a pathway back to women's cricket after BCCI silence.

Back-Nine Collapse Halts Akshay Bhatia's Charge At Tour Championship

Back-Nine Collapse Halts Akshay Bhatia's Charge At Tour Championship

Rediff.com40 minutes ago

Indian-American golfer Akshay Bhatia experienced a significant setback during the second round of the Tour Championship, with a back-nine collapse causing him to drop to tied 11th. Despite an impressive start, bogeys and a double bogey halted his charge, though he remains in contention.

Roy Dias: Test, ODI Formats Remain Relevant, Youngsters Need Strong Technique

Roy Dias: Test, ODI Formats Remain Relevant, Youngsters Need Strong Technique

Rediff.com2 days ago

Former Sri Lankan batter and veteran coach Roy Dias asserts that Test and ODI formats retain their relevance despite the rise of T20 cricket, advising young players to develop proper technique for success across all three versions.