News for 'PLAY'

Seers threaten agitation over Ram Temple offering embezzlement

Seers threaten agitation over Ram Temple offering embezzlement

Rediff.com4 days ago

A group of prominent seers in Ayodhya protested against former Ram temple trust general secretary Champat Rai, alleging embezzlement of offerings and demanding an impartial investigation. They also claimed police forcibly stopped their meeting, a charge denied by local authorities who stated the seers were asked to vacate a hotel room booked for stay, not a meeting. The seers vowed to launch a larger movement if their demands for action against those responsible are not met.

England add Sonny Baker to squad for second Test as Brydon Carse faces investigation

England add Sonny Baker to squad for second Test as Brydon Carse faces investigation

Rediff.com4 days ago

England have called up pacer Sonny Baker to their squad for the second ICC World Test Championship clash against Pakistan, replacing Brydon Carse, who has been omitted while the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) investigates an incident from the weekend.

Blue Colts Gear Up For AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers With Yemen Friendlies

Blue Colts Gear Up For AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers With Yemen Friendlies

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

The Indian U20 men's football team is set to play two friendly matches against Yemen in Bengaluru as part of their preparations for the AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers. These matches follow two recent victories against Singapore and precede their travel to Tashkent for the qualifiers against Syria, Uzbekistan, and Bangladesh.

Toxic Sells 9 Lakh Advance Tickets!

Toxic Sells 9 Lakh Advance Tickets!

Rediff.com4 days ago

Toxic has amassed a staggering Rs 41.75 crore in advance sales in India alone.

Tottenham Hotspur sign Brazil winger Savinho from Manchester City

Tottenham Hotspur sign Brazil winger Savinho from Manchester City

Rediff.com4 days ago

Tottenham Hotspur have significantly boosted their squad by signing Brazil winger Savinho from Manchester City, pushing their close-season spending beyond 300 million under manager Roberto De Zerbi, following a narrow escape from relegation last season.

Lalrindika's hat-trick powers East Bengal to record-equalling Durand Cup glory

Lalrindika's hat-trick powers East Bengal to record-equalling Durand Cup glory

Rediff.com6 days ago

East Bengal secured a historic 4-1 victory over arch-rivals Mohun Bagan in the Durand Cup final, with Edmund Lalrindika scoring a sensational hat-trick. This triumph marks East Bengal's 17th Durand Cup title, bringing them level with Mohun Bagan's record in Asia's oldest football competition.

Riyan Parag reveals his admiration for Manchester United, Cristiano Ronaldo

Riyan Parag reveals his admiration for Manchester United, Cristiano Ronaldo

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Indian cricketer Riyan Parag discusses his lifelong passion for football, particularly his admiration for Manchester United and Cristiano Ronaldo. He also speculates on which footballers could play cricket and which cricketers could play football.

Did Mumbai Indians Drop A Major Hint About Hardik Pandya?

Did Mumbai Indians Drop A Major Hint About Hardik Pandya?

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Mumbai Indians' cryptic Instagram post has ignited fresh speculation about Hardik Pandya's IPL future.

Student among 4 hurt as sound system collapses at Yash's 'Toxic' event

Student among 4 hurt as sound system collapses at Yash's 'Toxic' event

Rediff.com6 days ago

Four individuals, including a student, were injured when a sound box system collapsed during the pre-release event for actor Yash's film 'Toxic' at Malla Reddy University in Hyderabad. The incident occurred after attendees climbed the structure, leading to a police case against the event organisers and university management.

Jeev Milkha Singh Offers Crucial Asian Games Golf Advice

Jeev Milkha Singh Offers Crucial Asian Games Golf Advice

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Indian golfing legend Jeev Milkha Singh offers crucial advice to the national golf team ahead of the Asian Games, emphasising the importance of a strong short game and adapting to Japan's fast greens and windy conditions to secure medals.

Roger Federer: An icon returns to Arthur Ashe Stadium

Roger Federer: An icon returns to Arthur Ashe Stadium

Rediff.com3 days ago

Tennis icon Roger Federer made an emotional return to Arthur Ashe Stadium for an exhibition event, marking his first appearance since 2019. The 20-time Grand Slam champion, who retired without a formal farewell in New York, delighted fans in singles and doubles matches alongside fellow legends.

Mahabharat Actor Aasha Singh Jaiswal Dies

Mahabharat Actor Aasha Singh Jaiswal Dies

Rediff.com5 days ago

Actress Aasha Singh Jaiswal, known for her roles in films and television, has passed away in Mumbai.

How India's Youth Volleyball Ecosystem Is Building Olympic Aspirations

How India's Youth Volleyball Ecosystem Is Building Olympic Aspirations

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

India's burgeoning franchise volleyball ecosystem, particularly with dedicated Under-21 tournaments like the Guardians Trophy, is creating a structured pathway for young players. This initiative aims to develop talent from the grassroots to professional levels, fostering cultural adaptation and skill enhancement, with the ultimate goal of strengthening the senior national team and achieving Olympic qualification.

India all-rounder Mahipal Lomror signs with Surrey

India all-rounder Mahipal Lomror signs with Surrey

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Indian all-rounder Mahipal Lomror has signed with Surrey for the remainder of the County Championship season. He becomes the second player from Rajasthan to join the English side this season, filling a gap left by injuries and international call-ups.

How India U-20 Prepared For AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers

How India U-20 Prepared For AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers

Rediff.com4 days ago

The India U-20 men's football team has concluded its preparations for the AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers with an unbeaten run in four friendly matches, securing three wins and a draw without conceding any goals. The team is now heading to Uzbekistan for the crucial qualifiers, aiming for a strong performance.

Pakistan Hockey Legend Samiullah Khan Urges Strong Defence Against India

Pakistan Hockey Legend Samiullah Khan Urges Strong Defence Against India

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Pakistan hockey legend Samiullah Khan has advised his team to focus on a strong defence and avoid conceding penalty corners in their crucial FIH World Cup pool match against India. He also highlighted the need for a long-term vision in Pakistan hockey, similar to India's transformation, and lamented the fading intensity of the historic rivalry, urging both teams to bring back skill and artistry to attract fans.

Dhruv Jurel repays Gambhir-Gill's faith with timely fifty against Sri Lanka

Dhruv Jurel repays Gambhir-Gill's faith with timely fifty against Sri Lanka

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Dhruv Jurel on Sunday said he was not under any "pressure" despite failing to notch up a fifty in his last seven innings, and thanked head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill for giving him confidence during the lean phase.

India to play two Tests in Sri Lanka in August

India to play two Tests in Sri Lanka in August

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

India's two-Test series against hosts Sri Lanka will be played in Galle and Colombo from August 15 to 27.

Maguire: Rashford a 'Huge Threat,' Hopes He Stays at Man Utd

Maguire: Rashford a 'Huge Threat,' Hopes He Stays at Man Utd

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has expressed his hope that Marcus Rashford will remain at the club, calling the forward a 'huge threat' and a significant asset who can improve the team.

Jurel Does What Only Hardik Pandya Had Done In Sri Lanka

Jurel Does What Only Hardik Pandya Had Done In Sri Lanka

Rediff.com5 days ago

Indian batter Dhruv Jurel scored an unbeaten 115, becoming only the second Indian to hit a Test century at No. 7 or lower in Sri Lanka. His crucial partnerships, including a 112-run stand with Rishabh Pant, helped India declare at 503/9, putting them in a strong position against Sri Lanka in the second Test.

Hockey World Cup: Captain Harmanpreet wants India to cut defensive lapses before next test

Hockey World Cup: Captain Harmanpreet wants India to cut defensive lapses before next test

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

India secured a 5-3 victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in a high-octane FIH World Cup match. Despite the win, captain Harmanpreet Singh expressed concerns about defensive lapses and the team's inability to retain possession, urging improvements before facing top teams. Coach Craig Fulton praised the team's adherence to the game plan under pressure, while Pakistan acknowledged their mistakes.

Hockey World Cup: India women rout Germany, clinch historic fifth spot

Hockey World Cup: India women rout Germany, clinch historic fifth spot

Rediff.com2 days ago

The Indian women's hockey team secured a commendable fifth-place finish at the FIH World Cup by defeating Germany 3-1 in a classification match, with Navneet Kaur scoring two goals.

Brydon Carse out of Pakistan Test amid ECB probe

Brydon Carse out of Pakistan Test amid ECB probe

Rediff.com5 days ago

England fast bowler Brydon Carse has been dropped from the squad for the second Test against Pakistan following an investigation by the Cricket Regulator into an incident at a club in Derby. Carse, who was reportedly seen in handcuffs but not arrested or charged, will be replaced by Sonny Baker. This incident follows a series of off-field controversies involving England cricketers, prompting renewed scrutiny of player conduct.

Swedish Shuttler Gustav Bjorkler's Remarkable Return To Badminton After Cancer Battle

Swedish Shuttler Gustav Bjorkler's Remarkable Return To Badminton After Cancer Battle

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Swedish badminton player Gustav Bjorkler shares his inspiring journey of returning to professional badminton after battling myelodysplastic syndrome, a form of blood cancer. He discusses the physical and mental challenges of recovery, losing 17 kilos, and his renewed perspective on life and the sport, as he aims to break into the top 100 and develop his game further.

Will Messi play 2030 FIFA World Cup?

Will Messi play 2030 FIFA World Cup?

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has stated his intention to continue playing as long as he remains physically fit and can contribute to his team. He remained non-committal about his participation in the 2030 FIFA World Cup, stating it's too far off to consider. Messi also celebrated his 39th birthday amidst Argentina's strong performance in the FIFA World Cup 2026, where he became the all-time leading goal-scorer.

Brazil Delegation Inspects Kolkata Ahead Of India Friendly

Brazil Delegation Inspects Kolkata Ahead Of India Friendly

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

A delegation from the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) visited Kolkata to inspect venues and infrastructure for the upcoming international friendly against India on October 3. The inspection covered the stadium, training facilities, accommodation, and security, with West Bengal's Sports Minister assuring world-class arrangements.

India's World Cup Hopes Dwindle After 2-0 Loss to Dominant Netherlands

India's World Cup Hopes Dwindle After 2-0 Loss to Dominant Netherlands

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

The Indian women's hockey team suffered a 2-0 defeat against the formidable Netherlands in their FIH World Cup Pool E encounter, with goals from Yibbi Jansen and Frederique Matla, both from penalty corners. This loss puts India in a precarious position, requiring a victory against Australia to keep their semi-final aspirations alive.

'No Words Could Normalise Things': Coach on Treesa-Gayatri's Historic World Championships Medal

'No Words Could Normalise Things': Coach on Treesa-Gayatri's Historic World Championships Medal

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Indian doubles coach B Sumeeth Reddy discusses the emotional journey and struggles of Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand, who secured a historic bronze medal at the Badminton World Championships. He highlights their contrasting personalities, improved rotation, and resilience in overcoming injuries to achieve this significant milestone.

Neetu David: 'Power-hitting training crucial for women's domestic cricket'

Neetu David: 'Power-hitting training crucial for women's domestic cricket'

Rediff.com3 days ago

Former India spinner Neetu David, now head of scouting for UP Warriorz, highlights the need for focused power-hitting training in women's domestic cricket to strengthen both WPL teams and the national side, despite promising spin talent at junior levels.

India's tour of Bangladesh set to be postponed again!

India's tour of Bangladesh set to be postponed again!

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Bangladesh Cricket Board president Tamim Iqbal has indicated that India's upcoming cricket tour to Bangladesh, scheduled for September, might be postponed again. Discussions are ongoing between the BCB and BCCI, with the BCB president suggesting dates could be shifted due to a conflicting domestic tournament schedule and past strained relations between the boards.

'It's like chess': Gilmour on modern badminton's demands

'It's like chess': Gilmour on modern badminton's demands

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

European women's singles champion Kirsty Gilmour discusses the evolving nature of badminton, emphasising its mental aspect akin to a game of chess. Despite her early exit from the World Championships, she praised the improved arrangements at the New Delhi venue, particularly the availability of sanitary products, and contrasted it with the issues faced during the India Open.

T20 hitters to Test heroes: Manjrekar cannot explain the seamless switch

T20 hitters to Test heroes: Manjrekar cannot explain the seamless switch

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar expressed his bewilderment at how the current generation of cricketers, primarily raised on T20 cricket, has managed to seamlessly adapt to the rigorous demands of Test cricket. He compared their transition to pop singers mastering classical ragas, highlighting the significant technical and mental adjustments required. Manjrekar's comments come as young Indian players, many with IPL backgrounds, are actively participating in Test series, showcasing their versatility across formats.

Lakshya Sen, Treesa-Gayatri Advance In BWF World Championships

Lakshya Sen, Treesa-Gayatri Advance In BWF World Championships

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Indian shuttler Lakshya Sen advanced to the second round of the BWF World Championships after overcoming Austria's Collins Valentine Filimon. The women's doubles pair of Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand also stunned 16th seeds to reach the pre-quarterfinals. However, India faced a poor outing in mixed doubles, with two pairs crashing out in the opening round, though Unnati Hooda also progressed in women's singles.

Operation Safed Sagar Brings IAF's Kargil Story Alive For Gen Z

Operation Safed Sagar Brings IAF's Kargil Story Alive For Gen Z

Rediff.com2 days ago

If an OTT series can make a young person curious about the armed forces, make a family understand the sacrifices made by those in uniform, or simply make someone walk up to a veteran and say, "Thank you for your service," then it has achieved something far more important than merely getting its history right, notes Air Commodore Nitin Sathe (retd).

Williams sisters beaten on doubles return at Cincinnati Open

Williams sisters beaten on doubles return at Cincinnati Open

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Tennis legends Serena and Venus Williams made their return to doubles action at the Cincinnati Open, their first match together since 2022.

Awarapan 2: Disha-Emraan's Movie Date

Awarapan 2: Disha-Emraan's Movie Date

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Emraan Hashmi, Disha Patani, and Shabana Azmi attended the special screening of their film, Awarapan 2, which releases today in theatres.

Vidit Reveals what Gukesh must fix before title defence

Vidit Reveals what Gukesh must fix before title defence

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi discusses D Gukesh's mental strength challenge for his World Championship defence against Javokhir Sindarov, highlighting Gukesh's recent inconsistent form. Vidit also assesses India's strong prospects for the upcoming Chess Olympiad, praising the form of players like Praggnanandhaa, Erigaisi, and Sarin, while cautioning against overconfidence. He also reflects on his Arjuna Award and the need for better organisation in chess formats.

BWF Worlds: Lakshya Sen Suffers Shock Exit

BWF Worlds: Lakshya Sen Suffers Shock Exit

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Lakshya Sen suffered a shock second-round exit at the BWF World Championships after losing to USA's 18-year-old Garret Tan in a thrilling three-game contest in New Delhi on Wednesday.

Treesa Jolly-Gayatri Gopichand clinch maiden World Championship bronze after fighting semi-final loss

Treesa Jolly-Gayatri Gopichand clinch maiden World Championship bronze after fighting semi-final loss

Rediff.com7 days ago

Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand lost to China's World No 1 pairing Tan Ning and Liu Shengshu in the semi-finals of the women's doubles event at the BWF Badminton World Championships in New Delhi on Saturday.

Rishabh Pant 'badly bruised', India hope he will keep wickets on Day 4

Rishabh Pant 'badly bruised', India hope he will keep wickets on Day 4

Rediff.com4 days ago

India's bowling coach Morne Morkel provided an update on Rishabh Pant's shoulder injury, stating the wicketkeeper-batter is "badly bruised" but expressed hope for his return on day four of the second Test against Sri Lanka. Pant did not keep wickets on day three after sustaining a blow while batting. Morkel also commented on Kuldeep Yadav's absence due to viral fever and India's strategy to secure the remaining Sri Lankan wickets.