News for 'World Cup Opener'

The night England conquered the Azteca

The night England conquered the Azteca

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

England overcame Mexico, the hostile Azteca atmosphere, high altitude and a red card to seal a dramatic 3-2 World Cup victory, with Jude Bellingham inspiring a famous win that could define their tournament.

Messi milestone as second-string Argentina whip Jordan

Messi milestone as second-string Argentina whip Jordan

Rediff.com28 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi made history by scoring in his seventh consecutive World Cup match, leading a second-string Argentina to a 3-1 victory over Jordan in their Group J clash in Dallas. Goals from Giovani Lo Celso and Lautaro Martinez also contributed to Argentina's win, setting them up for the round of 32.

Fatima Sana vows Pakistan will shine in women's World Cup

Fatima Sana vows Pakistan will shine in women's World Cup

Rediff.com20 Sep 2025

Pakistan will play all their matches in Sri Lanka and open their campaign against Bangladesh on October 2, followed by matches against India (October 5), Australia (October 8), England (October 15), New Zealand (October 18), South Africa (October 21) and hosts Sri Lanka (October 24).

'No pressure, just joy': Harmanpreet's World Cup mantra

'No pressure, just joy': Harmanpreet's World Cup mantra

Rediff.com26 Sep 2025

India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur knows that fans have placed heaps of expectations on her side ahead of the upcoming ICC Women's ODI World Cup at home, and she wants to enjoy the moment without succumbing to the pressure to land a maiden title.

Is Rohit Sharma Being Forced Out?

Is Rohit Sharma Being Forced Out?

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

If Rohit Sharma's ODI exit is coming, it should be announced with dignity and not through rumours and leaks. You don't whisper exits for great players -- you announce them with respect, asserts K R Nayar.

India dethrone England to become No 1 in T20Is again

India dethrone England to become No 1 in T20Is again

Rediff.com26 Jul 2026

India has ascended to the No. 1 position in the ICC Men's T20I Team Rankings, surpassing England, following their dominant 2-0 series lead against Zimbabwe. Key performances from batters Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma, alongside strong bowling, secured the series victory and the top ranking.

PHOTOS: India overpower Australia in World Cup opener

PHOTOS: India overpower Australia in World Cup opener

Rediff.com8 Oct 2023

India launched their home World Cup campaign with a six-wicket victory over Australia after Virat Kohli and KL Rahul guided them through a jittery run chase on Sunday.

How ICC's AI-Powered Tool Protects Women Cricketers From Social Media Trolls

How ICC's AI-Powered Tool Protects Women Cricketers From Social Media Trolls

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

The ICC Player Protection Programme, in partnership with AI moderator Freedom2hear, is actively shielding women cricketers from social media abuse. Over 100 players, including India's Radha Yadav and England's Amy Jones, have joined the initiative, which has already removed nearly 60,000 harmful comments during the ongoing T20 World Cup, ensuring player well-being and confident fan engagement.

Saba Karim questions Suryakumar's future, backs Patidar for T20 captaincy

Saba Karim questions Suryakumar's future, backs Patidar for T20 captaincy

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Former India cricketer and selector Saba Karim believes Suryakumar Yadav's inconsistent form might cost him a spot in India's T20 World Cup 2028 plans. Karim also suggested Rajat Patidar, Shreyas Iyer, Sanju Samson, and Ishan Kishan as potential captaincy candidates, while expressing doubts about Hardik Pandya's leadership. He also advocated for the inclusion of 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the national squad.

'Back Our Own Strengths': Shafali's Simple Plan To Beat Australia

'Back Our Own Strengths': Shafali's Simple Plan To Beat Australia

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Shafali Verma believes that keeping the game plan simple is the best way for India to get the better of Australia in their must-win Women's T20 World Cup clash at Lord's on Sunday.

Blow for India as Arundhati gets injured before World Cup

Blow for India as Arundhati gets injured before World Cup

Rediff.com25 Sep 2025

The ICC said that 'clarity is awaited' on Reddy's participation in the World Cup after the freak accident in her follow-through.

'Always United': Ronaldo Sends Message as Portugal Back Captain Amid Criticism

'Always United': Ronaldo Sends Message as Portugal Back Captain Amid Criticism

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo called for unity ahead of Portugal's crucial World Cup clash against Uzbekistan, while teammate Ruben Dias dismissed criticism of the veteran forward following a difficult tournament opener.

Former England pacer Liam Plunkett swaps cricket for baseball, nails strikeout

Former England pacer Liam Plunkett swaps cricket for baseball, nails strikeout

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Former England cricketer Liam Plunkett swapped his cricket colours for a baseball glove on Friday, playing his first game for independent American club Oakland Ballers and even claiming a strikeout.

Former India Coach Constantine Weighs In On Messi's Legacy

Former India Coach Constantine Weighs In On Messi's Legacy

Rediff.com18 Jul 2026

Former India coach Stephen Constantine shares his views on Lionel Messi, ranking him below Pele, Maradona, and Ronaldinho due to his reliance on teammates for defensive work. He also predicts Spain will win the upcoming final against Argentina, despite acknowledging Argentina's experience and Messi's match-winning ability. Constantine further discusses England's semi-final exit and criticises hydration breaks and refereeing controversies.

T20 World Cup, India vs England Semi-final: I made a big mistake dropping Sanju Samson: Harry Brook

T20 World Cup, India vs England Semi-final: I made a big mistake dropping Sanju Samson: Harry Brook

Rediff.com6 Mar 2026

Harry Brook dropped Sanju Samson on 15 in the third over of the Indian innings and the missed opportunity had a big impact on the outcome of the T20 World Cup semi-final.

U-19 World Cup: Thomas Rew stars as England beat Australia to reach final

U-19 World Cup: Thomas Rew stars as England beat Australia to reach final

Rediff.com3 Feb 2026

Captain Thomas Rew led the way with a splendid century to guide England to 277/7 against Australia in the first semi-final of the Under-19 World Cup.

Gill fitness, Rohit form: India's big ODI worries

Gill fitness, Rohit form: India's big ODI worries

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

India is set to face England in the second ODI, aiming for a series victory, but concerns over Shubman Gill's fitness after he walked off injured in the first match, and Rohit Sharma's inconsistent batting form, are prominent. The team will also consider potential changes to the playing eleven.

T20 World Cup: Super Eights: Is Dube India's X-Factor?

T20 World Cup: Super Eights: Is Dube India's X-Factor?

Rediff.com20 Feb 2026

Shivam Dube: 'I worked really hard, but there is something called support that is given by Surya and Gautam. They have given me a free hand. So I go and hit because they trust me a lot.'

Will Shafali, Renuka get World Cup call-up?

Will Shafali, Renuka get World Cup call-up?

Rediff.com18 Aug 2025

India's recent run of victories has bolstered confidence but the women's selection panel, headed by Neetu David, will face some tricky questions on the inclusion of Shafali Verma and pacer Renuka Thakur when it meets in Mumbai on Tuesday to pick the squad for the ODI World Cup.

T20 World Cup: India's Nets Session Resembled A Fireworks Display

T20 World Cup: India's Nets Session Resembled A Fireworks Display

Rediff.com25 Feb 2026

Batters launched balls so high into the sky that they looked like rockets taking off from the centre square.

Shafali On Why She Loves Batting With Smriti Mandhana

Shafali On Why She Loves Batting With Smriti Mandhana

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Indian women's team opener Shafali Verma credited vice-captain and opening partner Smriti Mandhana for helping her stay calm at the crease in the ongoing T20 World Cup.

Morocco's Hakimi Feels Targeted as Rape Case Heads to Trial

Morocco's Hakimi Feels Targeted as Rape Case Heads to Trial

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Achraf Hakimi says he is ready to face trial after a French appeals court reportedly rejected his challenge to a rape case referral. The Morocco and PSG defender insists he will finally get the chance to tell his side of the story.

Gill ignored; Ishan, Rinku in India's squad for T20 World Cup

Gill ignored; Ishan, Rinku in India's squad for T20 World Cup

Rediff.com20 Dec 2025

All-rounder Axar Patel was named vice-captain of the squad, which also saw the return of in-form Ishan Kishan, who pipped Jitesh Sharma as the second wicketkeeper behind Sanju Samson.

'Ready if needed': Harry Kane offers services to England Cricket, RCB

'Ready if needed': Harry Kane offers services to England Cricket, RCB

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

England captain Harry Kane sparked a social media buzz after showing off his cricket skills during the team's FIFA World Cup 2026 training camp in the United States.

Spain knock out Uruguay; take top spot in Group H

Spain knock out Uruguay; take top spot in Group H

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Spain defeated Uruguay 1-0 in a crucial Group H match, with Alex Baena scoring the decisive goal. This victory secured Spain's top spot in the group and a place in the World Cup knockout stage, while Uruguay, managed by Marcelo Bielsa, was eliminated from the tournament. Cape Verde also advanced from the group.

T20 World Cup: Will Harry Brook stay at No 3 after stunning 100?

T20 World Cup: Will Harry Brook stay at No 3 after stunning 100?

Rediff.com25 Feb 2026

Harry Brook smashed a match-winning hundred in Tuesday's Super Eight match against Pakistan after being moved up the order to number three but the England captain is unsure if he will stay in the new slot for the rest of the Twenty20 World Cup.

T20 World Cup, India vs England Semi-final: Bumrah should bowl 2 overs in Powerplay: Gavaskar

T20 World Cup, India vs England Semi-final: Bumrah should bowl 2 overs in Powerplay: Gavaskar

Rediff.com3 Mar 2026

The tussle between Harry Brook and Jasprit Bumrah will shape the outcome of India's T20 World Cup semi-final clash against England, batting legend Sunil Gavaskar has predicted.

Dhiraj stuns Olympic medalist to win double gold

Dhiraj stuns Olympic medalist to win double gold

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Indian archer Dhiraj Bommadevara secured a golden double at the Archery World Cup in Antalya, winning his maiden individual gold by defeating Paris Olympics bronze medallist Lee Woo Seok, hours after claiming the recurve mixed team title.

Nahid Rana, Mosaddek Hossain power Bangladesh past Australia in ODI series opener

Nahid Rana, Mosaddek Hossain power Bangladesh past Australia in ODI series opener

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Bangladesh stunned Australia with an 86-run win via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method in their opening one-day international in Dhaka on Tuesday, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

England defeat sparks BCCI rethink as Gambhir faces first real scrutiny

England defeat sparks BCCI rethink as Gambhir faces first real scrutiny

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The BCCI will review the performances of India's players and coaching staff after the T20I series defeat to England, with head coach Gautam Gambhir's role also coming under scrutiny following back-to-back series losses.

T20 World Cup: India vs USA: I felt the pressure but I had the belief: Suryakumar Yadav

T20 World Cup: India vs USA: I felt the pressure but I had the belief: Suryakumar Yadav

Rediff.com7 Feb 2026

Captain Suryakumar Yadav didn't hesitate to accept that the batting unit could have been "smarter and better" during India's hard-earned 29-run win against USA.

The Great Collapse: How India's Big T20 Shake-Up Failed

The Great Collapse: How India's Big T20 Shake-Up Failed

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The Indian team, which looked invincible under Suryakumar Yadav, has suddenly hit rock bottom a few months after winning the T20 World Cup.

Iran fight back to hold New Zealand in Group G thriller

Iran fight back to hold New Zealand in Group G thriller

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

Iran twice came from behind to earn a 2-2 draw with New Zealand in their opening World Cup match on Monday after an end-to-end contest played against the backdrop of Iranian fan protests against the government in Tehran.

Japan score late to hold Netherlands in Texas thriller

Japan score late to hold Netherlands in Texas thriller

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Japan showed their battling qualities to eke out a 2-2 draw with the Netherlands in their World Cup Group F opener on Sunday, as Hajime Moriyasu's side backed up their desire to make an impact at the tournament with a gritty display.

I was depressed, thought about giving up cricket: Shreyanka

I was depressed, thought about giving up cricket: Shreyanka

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

India spinner Shreyanka Patil opened up on how she nearly gave up cricket because of depression during a lengthy injury lay-off.

World Tennis Aims For 30% Participation Boost With New Identity

World Tennis Aims For 30% Participation Boost With New Identity

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has rebranded as World Tennis, announcing an ambitious vision to increase global participation by 30% to 140 million players by 2035. The organisation, which governs the sport and runs major competitions, plans to reinvest 85% of its income annually for the next decade to achieve its strategic goals, including powering future stars and elevating national competitions. The name change aims to enhance recognition and foster greater collaboration within the sport.

Will Vaibhav Sooryavanshi debut? Shreyas Iyer finally breaks silence

Will Vaibhav Sooryavanshi debut? Shreyas Iyer finally breaks silence

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

India captain Shreyas Iyer addressed the media ahead of the T20I series opener against England, discussing team selection, particularly the potential debut of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Iyer emphasised the importance of backing experienced players who won the T20 World Cup and reflected on India's recent series loss to Ireland, highlighting lessons learned for the upcoming challenging series in England.

2nd T20I: Hurt India Seek Revenge After Shock Loss To Ireland

2nd T20I: Hurt India Seek Revenge After Shock Loss To Ireland

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

India's star-studded top order will be under pressure to make amends when they take on a buoyant Ireland in the second and final T20I in Belfast on Sunday.

Morkel backs struggling Samson, in-form Abhishek despite Sooryavanshi buzz

Morkel backs struggling Samson, in-form Abhishek despite Sooryavanshi buzz

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

India's bowling coach Morne Morkel has indicated that the team management will continue to back openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma, despite the impressive performance of teen sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Morkel stressed the importance of showing faith in established players who have performed well previously, while also acknowledging the excitement around new talents like Sooryavanshi and pacer Prince Yadav.

Women's World Cup: England stun India to reach semis

Women's World Cup: England stun India to reach semis

Rediff.com19 Oct 2025

England edged India by just four runs in a nerve-wracking finish to storm into the Women's World Cup semi-finals on Sunday night in Indore.