News for 'PLAY'

Ayush Shetty exits; Treesa-Gayatri enter quarterfinals at Badminton Worlds

Ayush Shetty exits; Treesa-Gayatri enter quarterfinals at Badminton Worlds

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Ayush Shetty's impressive run at the World Championships ended in the pre-quarterfinals against Alwi Farhan, concluding India's men's singles challenge. Meanwhile, the women's doubles pair of Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand advanced to the quarterfinals with a dominant win, continuing their strong comeback after Treesa's injury.

'I Want To Play Women Who Feel Flawed'

'I Want To Play Women Who Feel Flawed'

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

'For me, success isn't about fitting into a certain mould. It's about constantly evolving as an actor and surprising both the audience and myself.'

Australian Nick Kyrgios suspended after positive cocaine test

Australian Nick Kyrgios suspended after positive cocaine test

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Former Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended from tennis after testing positive for benzoylecgonine, a cocaine metabolite, from a sample taken during an ATP 250 event in Mallorca in June. The volatile Australian owned up to his "huge mistake" in a public apology, citing the physical and mental toll of recent injuries.

Vande Mataram: Sharmila Tagore Vs Kangana Ranaut

Vande Mataram: Sharmila Tagore Vs Kangana Ranaut

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Actor-MP Kangana Ranaut and movie legend Sharmila Tagore are embroiled in a public debate over Vande Mataram.

1st Test: Dinusha's maiden ton gives Sri Lanka hope, but India remain firmly in charge

1st Test: Dinusha's maiden ton gives Sri Lanka hope, but India remain firmly in charge

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Sonal Dinusha's maiden Test hundred sparked Sri Lanka's fightback in Galle, but India retained firm control after bowling out the hosts for 284 to secure a 178-run lead.

Niharika Chouksey Is Winning Hearts With...

Niharika Chouksey Is Winning Hearts With...

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

On screen, Niharika Chouksey is winning hearts with her bubbly, girl-next-door charm in Tum Se Tum Tak.

'Not good enough': Ian Chappell Slams Australia's Selectors After Bangladesh Test Loss

'Not good enough': Ian Chappell Slams Australia's Selectors After Bangladesh Test Loss

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

Legendary cricketer Ian Chappell has strongly criticised Australian selectors following their nine-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in the first Test at Darwin, demanding significant changes to the team's selection process and personnel.

WATCH: Salman Khan's Twist For Bigg Boss 20

WATCH: Salman Khan's Twist For Bigg Boss 20

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Salman Khan is set to host Bigg Boss 20, introducing a new twist 'Extra Jeevan Daan' that promises to revolutionise the game with higher stakes and unexpected challenges for contestants.

Ready For The World Humanoid Robot Games?

Ready For The World Humanoid Robot Games?

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Glimpses of humanoid robots training across soccer, table tennis and other events ahead of the 2026 World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing.

Cincinnati Open: Bejlek shocks World No 1 Sabalenka, Paul ousts top seed Zverev

Cincinnati Open: Bejlek shocks World No 1 Sabalenka, Paul ousts top seed Zverev

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

World number one Aryna Sabalenka and top seed Alexander Zverev were dramatically knocked out of the Cincinnati Open, with Sabalenka losing to Sara Bejlek and Zverev falling to Tommy Paul after saving a match point.

Clarity in approach, hunger for big runs key to maiden Test century: Devdutt Padikkal

Clarity in approach, hunger for big runs key to maiden Test century: Devdutt Padikkal

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Devdutt Padikkal scored his maiden Test hundred against Sri Lanka, attributing his success to a clear strategy against spin and a strong desire to convert big scores. He focused on developing specific plans for bowlers and maintaining full commitment to every shot, while also emphasising the importance of staying focused after reaching a century.

Bayern's Jamal Musiala reveals neurological disorder after collapses

Bayern's Jamal Musiala reveals neurological disorder after collapses

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Bayern Munich midfielder Jamal Musiala has been diagnosed with a temporary, brief, but easily treatable neurological disorder after collapsing during two recent friendly matches, the 23-year-old Germany international announced.

'I don't know how to carry on': Messi hints at retirement?

'I don't know how to carry on': Messi hints at retirement?

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Lionel Messi has shared a deeply personal and emotional tribute to his late father, Jorge Messi, on Instagram, expressing his profound grief and recalling his father's encouragement to play in one final World Cup.

Tiger Shroff Pulls Out Of Mumbay FC's Durand Cup Match In Shillong

Tiger Shroff Pulls Out Of Mumbay FC's Durand Cup Match In Shillong

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Bollywood actor Tiger Shroff will not be participating in Mumbay FC's Durand Cup match against Nongkseh SS&CC due to a last-minute work commitment.

Cincinnati Open: Pegula survives scare, sets up Swiatek clash

Cincinnati Open: Pegula survives scare, sets up Swiatek clash

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Jessica Pegula and Iga Swiatek advanced to the Cincinnati Open women's semi-finals, with Pegula overcoming Amanda Anisimova in a tough three-setter and Swiatek progressing after Elena Rybakina retired due to injury. In the men's draw, Flavio Cobolli reached his first ATP Masters 1000 semi-final, defeating Tommy Paul, and will face Arthur Fils.

New Show With Trisha Was 'Tough To Crack'

New Show With Trisha Was 'Tough To Crack'

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

'It's in the magic realism/supernatural space and I'm very excited about it.'

India's Hockey World Cup Strategy: No Room For Complacency

India's Hockey World Cup Strategy: No Room For Complacency

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

India's hockey coach Craig Fulton and captain Harmanpreet Singh discuss their approach to the FIH Hockey World Cup opener against Wales. They emphasise respecting opponents, maintaining focus, and the importance of a strong start, especially on Independence Day. The team has prepared extensively, focusing on defence and consistent performance across all quarters.

Hockey World Cup: Netherlands dent India's semi-final hopes with 3-1 win

Hockey World Cup: Netherlands dent India's semi-final hopes with 3-1 win

Rediff.com7 days ago

India's strong defensive start unravelled after half-time as three Dutch goals secured a 3-1 win, denting the team's World Cup semifinal hopes.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar 'Absolutely Ready' for India Recall, Eyes World Cup

Bhuvneshwar Kumar 'Absolutely Ready' for India Recall, Eyes World Cup

Rediff.com10 Aug 2026

Veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar has declared himself 'absolutely ready' for a potential recall to the Indian team, including for the World Cup, following spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin's endorsement for his return.

India snub FIFA ASEAN Cup to face Brazil in October

India snub FIFA ASEAN Cup to face Brazil in October

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

India has withdrawn from the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup to prioritise a high-profile international friendly against five-time world champions Brazil in October. This decision, confirmed by AIFF, means India will miss facing Southeast Asian teams in a FIFA-sanctioned competition, opting instead for a more challenging opponent to improve its international standing.

Brandon Nakashima Upsets Daniil Medvedev in Cincinnati Open Thriller

Brandon Nakashima Upsets Daniil Medvedev in Cincinnati Open Thriller

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

Brandon Nakashima delivered a stunning upset at the Cincinnati Open, defeating fourth seed Daniil Medvedev 6-7(3), 7-6(4), 6-1 in the third round, saving three match points in a remarkable comeback.

At Pune event, Rahul Gandhi asks girl students to 'smash Manusmriti mindset'

At Pune event, Rahul Gandhi asks girl students to 'smash Manusmriti mindset'

Rediff.com7 days ago

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi urged girl students to "smash patriarchy" and criticised the "Manusmriti mindset" during an interaction in Pune, highlighting issues of sexual harassment, safety, and economic independence for women.

Ellyse Perry reveals what makes Smriti Mandhana so special

Ellyse Perry reveals what makes Smriti Mandhana so special

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Australian cricket legend Ellyse Perry has lauded Indian superstars Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur, highlighting Mandhana's "incredible willpower" and "super-strong mind," and Kaur's "tenacity." Perry also expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming ICC Women's Champions Trophy and reflected on the evolving landscape of women's cricket.

Bangladesh Break India, Pakistan's Record With Historic Test Win In Australia

Bangladesh Break India, Pakistan's Record With Historic Test Win In Australia

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Bangladesh achieved a historic milestone by defeating Australia by nine wickets in Darwin, marking their first-ever Test victory on Australian soil and becoming the fastest Asian team to do so.

Women's Hockey World Cup: India Face Olympic Silver Medallists China In Crucial Opener

Women's Hockey World Cup: India Face Olympic Silver Medallists China In Crucial Opener

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

India's women's hockey team faces a challenging opening match against Olympic silver medallists China in the FIH Hockey World Cup. The crucial Pool D encounter in Amstelveen will set the tone for India's campaign, with both teams also set to meet at the upcoming Asian Games. India, buoyed by recent strong performances and an experienced squad, aims to improve on past World Cup finishes and secure a positive start against a formidable Chinese side.

World No 7 Victor Lai sets sights on badminton's top spot

World No 7 Victor Lai sets sights on badminton's top spot

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Canadian badminton player Victor Lai, currently world No. 7, expresses his ambition to become world No. 1. He acknowledges the challenge from established stars and welcomes the rise of a new generation of young shuttlers. Lai highlights his recent Super 1000 title win and his breakthrough at the India Open as crucial steps in his mental and professional growth.

England Star Jason Roy Set To Shine In European T20 Premier League

England Star Jason Roy Set To Shine In European T20 Premier League

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Veteran England opener Jason Roy has signed with Glasgow Cosmic for the inaugural European T20 Premier League, bringing his aggressive batting and extensive experience to the new franchise.

How Yuvraj's prank nearly cost Ganguly his captaincy

How Yuvraj's prank nearly cost Ganguly his captaincy

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh recounted an elaborate April Fool's Day prank in 2005 where he and Yuvraj Singh convinced then-captain Sourav Ganguly that he had publicly criticised his teammates, leading Ganguly to panic and offer to resign.

Will Khalifa 2: The Legacy Be Made? Because...

Will Khalifa 2: The Legacy Be Made? Because...

Rediff.com5 days ago

If Khalifa: The Ruler continues to bleed at the box office, the odds of a big-budget sequel materialising drop to practically zero. The harsh reality of franchise filmmaking is incredibly simple: If the 'ruler' fails to conquer, absolutely no one is going to care about the 'legacy', no matter how many superstars you cram onto a poster.

Pakistan under pressure at Headingley as Brook's 91 drives England to commanding lead

Pakistan under pressure at Headingley as Brook's 91 drives England to commanding lead

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Harry Brook's blistering 91 and strong partnerships with Dan Lawrence, Joe Root and Jordan Cox put England firmly in control, leaving Pakistan facing an uphill battle in the first Test at Headingley.

Football icon Gerard Pique invests in Global Chess League franchise

Football icon Gerard Pique invests in Global Chess League franchise

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

World Cup-winning Spanish footballer Gerard Pique has become a strategic shareholder in the Global Chess League franchise American Gambits. Pique, known for his illustrious football career, expressed his long-standing fascination with chess and his ambition to elevate the sport's global appeal. The fourth edition of the Global Chess League, featuring top grandmasters, is scheduled for September 3-13.

India Win 1st Test: Where Do They Stand In WTC Race?

India Win 1st Test: Where Do They Stand In WTC Race?

Rediff.com19 Aug 2026

India secured a comprehensive victory over Sri Lanka in the first Test, improving their World Test Championship points percentage. However, despite the win, their path to the WTC final has become significantly more challenging, requiring them to win almost all their remaining matches due to a tightly packed table and other teams' results.

Indian IT firms see uptick in outcome-based deals driven by AI

Indian IT firms see uptick in outcome-based deals driven by AI

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

Indian IT companies are experiencing a growing trend towards outcome-based pricing models, moving away from traditional time and material or fixed-price contracts, as artificial intelligence reshapes client engagement and deal structures.

Jharkhand exam stir: Students plan CM residence gherao on Aug 30

Jharkhand exam stir: Students plan CM residence gherao on Aug 30

Rediff.com16 Aug 2026

Students protesting against alleged irregularities in Jharkhand's recruitment exams announced burning the effigies of Chief Minister Hemant Soren and Rahul Gandhi in all districts on Sunday, accusing the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha-Congress alliance of "failing to take concrete action" on their demands.

Vermula And Saranya Lead India's Strong Start At Asian Junior Chess

Vermula And Saranya Lead India's Strong Start At Asian Junior Chess

Rediff.com17 Aug 2026

Indian chess players Vignesh Vermula and Saranya Devi secured gold medals in the Open and Girls blitz sections respectively at the Asian Junior Chess Championship, marking a strong start for the nation. Vermula, a 23rd seed, won on tie-breaks, while Saranya, seeded ninth, displayed tactical precision to claim her title.

Why Hingorani Family Sold Gandhi Papers

Why Hingorani Family Sold Gandhi Papers

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

The Hingorani family's decision to part with the Gandhi archive after generations was guided by a desire to make it accessible to a wider audience and to fund initiatives that would extend its legacy.

Sahith Theegala In Contention For Top-10 At Wyndham Championship

Sahith Theegala In Contention For Top-10 At Wyndham Championship

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

Indian-origin golfer Sahith Theegala is in contention for a Top-10 finish at the Wyndham Championship, the final regular-season PGA TOUR event. Despite a mixed third round, he remains close to the leaders, aiming for a strong performance to boost his FedExCup Play-offs chances. Beau Hossler and Michael Brennan currently share the lead.

How Lenient Refereeing Is Driving World Cup's High-Intensity Play

How Lenient Refereeing Is Driving World Cup's High-Intensity Play

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The World Cup has seen a shift to a more lenient refereeing style, prioritising game flow and reducing stoppages. This, combined with stronger, faster players, has led to a quicker, more physically demanding tournament with higher scoring. While welcomed, experts warn that this intensity tests players' physical limits, increasing injury risks, especially for those not fully fit.

BWF Worlds: Treesa-Gayatri stun China, assure India of medal

BWF Worlds: Treesa-Gayatri stun China, assure India of medal

Rediff.com21 Aug 2026

India's Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand staged a remarkable comeback victory in the women's doubles quarter-finals at the BWF World Championships 2026, defeating China's Jia Yifan and Zhang Shuxian to secure a semi-final spot and guarantee India a medal.

Ajinkya Rahane To Debut As Test Commentator For India-Sri Lanka Series

Ajinkya Rahane To Debut As Test Commentator For India-Sri Lanka Series

Rediff.com12 Aug 2026

Former India batter Ajinkya Rahane is set to begin his Test commentary career with the Sony Sports Network during India's upcoming two-match series in Sri Lanka.