News for 'World Group'

Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal eye fast start against Congo

Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal eye fast start against Congo

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Portugal's latest bid for World Cup glory begins in Houston on Wednesday when they take on the Democratic Republic of Congo in a Group K clash.

Guess How Messi Celebrated His 39th Birthday

Guess How Messi Celebrated His 39th Birthday

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi, on the eve of his 39th birthday, demonstrated his unwavering commitment to Argentina's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign by engaging in an intense gym session. The football legend, who is already the FIFA World Cup's all-time top goalscorer, is leading Argentina into the Round of 16 and continues to break records with his exceptional performance.

'Tilak Varma is clueless': Srikkanth backs Samson over him

'Tilak Varma is clueless': Srikkanth backs Samson over him

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

India's T20I team is facing significant challenges under its new leadership, with captain Shreyas Iyer and vice-captain Tilak Varma under scrutiny after consecutive series losses in the UK. The team's poor performance, especially after a recent T20 World Cup win, has led to questions about player selections and management decisions, particularly concerning Tilak Varma's form and role.

Almiron Red Card: New Rule Controversy

Almiron Red Card: New Rule Controversy

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Miguel Almiron became the first player sent off at the World Cup for violating a new rule against covering mouths during confrontations. His dismissal left Paraguay with 10 men, but they still secured a 1-0 victory over Turkey, keeping their World Cup hopes alive while eliminating Turkey. The incident has sparked debate among coaches about the impact of new rules on the game's essence.

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.

India for open Indo-Pacific, against expansionism, Modi tells Indonesian parliament

India for open Indo-Pacific, against expansionism, Modi tells Indonesian parliament

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Indonesian parliament, emphasising India's commitment to development over expansionism and advocating for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. He highlighted the strong historical ties between India and Indonesia, calling for enhanced cooperation in various sectors, including defence, technology, and counter-terrorism, amidst growing concerns over regional security.

Late extra-time own goal takes Argentina past Cape Verde

Late extra-time own goal takes Argentina past Cape Verde

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Argentina secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in their World Cup last-32 encounter, which extended into extra time. An own goal in the 111th minute ultimately decided the match, sending the reigning champions into the last 16 where they will face Egypt.

KJo To Manish Malhotra: 'You've Created The 'Mother' Of...'

KJo To Manish Malhotra: 'You've Created The 'Mother' Of...'

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Sharing a heartfelt message on social media, Filmmaker Karan Johar reflected on a professional relationship spanning more than three decades and praised Designer Manish Malhotra's journey from his early days in Indian cinema to becoming a globally recognised name in couture.

'We Don't Give Him Space': How Brazil Plan To Stop Haaland

'We Don't Give Him Space': How Brazil Plan To Stop Haaland

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Norway pose a formidable threat through Erling Haaland, whose pace and power have made him one of the World Cup's most feared forwards.

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.

Trump intervention sparks storm as FIFA clears Balogun to face Belgium

Trump intervention sparks storm as FIFA clears Balogun to face Belgium

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

The United States' World Cup campaign took an extraordinary turn on Sunday when FIFA made the unprecedented decision to suspend Folarin Balogun's automatic red-card ban, clearing the striker to face Belgium in Monday's last-16 clash after US President Donald Trump personally urged FIFA President Gianni Infantino to review the case.

Messi Turns 39: The Legend Continues to Grow

Messi Turns 39: The Legend Continues to Grow

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of football's greatest players, celebrated his 39th birthday. The article chronicles his journey from humble beginnings in Rosario to becoming a global superstar, highlighting his unparalleled success at Barcelona, his international triumphs with Argentina including the 2022 World Cup, his individual accolades like eight Ballon d'Or awards, and his current impact with Inter Miami, cementing his legacy as a record-breaking legend.

India must shed 'underachievers' tag in foreign T20 conditions, says assistant coach

India must shed 'underachievers' tag in foreign T20 conditions, says assistant coach

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

India's assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has challenged the T20 team to shed its 'underachievers' tag in foreign conditions, emphasising the need for quicker adaptation to varied playing environments after recent series losses.

The Cornish connection: How English miners shaped Mexican football

The Cornish connection: How English miners shaped Mexican football

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Ahead of England's World Cup clash in Mexico, discover the remarkable 200-year-old story of how Cornish miners introduced football and the famous Cornish pasty to the country, shaping Mexico's sporting and cultural identity.

India Open Super 750 Dates Shift In New BWF Calendar

India Open Super 750 Dates Shift In New BWF Calendar

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has announced its World Tour Calendar for 2027 and 2028, featuring a 35-tournament global circuit. The India Open Super 750 will see its dates shifted to February 2027 and January 2028, while the Syed Modi India International has been downgraded to a Super 100 event. The new calendar also introduces a 3x15 scoring system and extended competition windows to enhance player welfare and global reach.

India Open Super 750 Dates Shift In New BWF Calendar

India Open Super 750 Dates Shift In New BWF Calendar

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has announced its World Tour Calendar for 2027 and 2028, featuring a 35-tournament global circuit. The India Open Super 750 will see its dates shifted to February 2027 and January 2028, while the Syed Modi India International has been downgraded to a Super 100 event. The new calendar also introduces a 3x15 scoring system and extended competition windows to enhance player welfare and global reach.

Through to Last 32, Norway Celebrate with Viking Row

Through to Last 32, Norway Celebrate with Viking Row

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

The jubilant Norwegians edged Senegal 3-2 to reach the last 32 and then celebrated by taking part in a "Viking row" on the pitch.

ICC T20 World Cup: Group C heats up: England, WI face tricky rivals

ICC T20 World Cup: Group C heats up: England, WI face tricky rivals

Rediff.com6 Feb 2026

Group C promises one of the most competitive battles at the T20 World Cup, with former champions England and West Indies joined by ambitious sides Scotland, Nepal and debutants Italy.

No Room for Complacency: Koeman Eyes Defensive Fixes Before Morocco Tie

No Room for Complacency: Koeman Eyes Defensive Fixes Before Morocco Tie

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has warned against underestimating Morocco despite topping Group F, calling the Round of 32 clash the Dutch side's "real test" while admitting there is still room for defensive improvement.

Corporate Earnings, Monsoon to Drive Next Leg of Indian Market Rally: Morgan Stanley

Corporate Earnings, Monsoon to Drive Next Leg of Indian Market Rally: Morgan Stanley

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

Morgan Stanley analysts, led by Ridham Desai, predict that the next phase of the Indian market rally will be primarily driven by the April-June quarter (Q1FY27) corporate earnings season and the performance of the monsoon.

Assam's Dr Bibhab Kumar Talukdar Becomes Linnean Society Fellow

Assam's Dr Bibhab Kumar Talukdar Becomes Linnean Society Fellow

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Renowned conservation biologist Dr Bibhab Kumar Talukdar, founder of Assam's biodiversity organisation Aaranyak, has been elected as a Fellow of the Linnean Society of London (FLS), one of the highest international recognitions in natural history and biological sciences.

'Bro, I'm an artist': Diljit Dosanjh to stay away from CJP protest

'Bro, I'm an artist': Diljit Dosanjh to stay away from CJP protest

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh has publicly distanced himself from the ongoing protests by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar, which are focused on alleged exam irregularities and the NEET paper-leak controversy. Dosanjh reiterated his identity as an artist, not a politician, despite his past support for the farmers' protest and recent appeals to enter politics.

Dalot Defends Ronaldo, Claims Portugal Facing Unwanted Negativity

Dalot Defends Ronaldo, Claims Portugal Facing Unwanted Negativity

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Portugal defender Diogo Dalot has defended Cristiano Ronaldo and insisted the squad remains united despite criticism following their World Cup draw with DR Congo, claiming some people are actively hoping Portugal fail.

Football's race problem resurfaces after Garcia's Senegal remarks

Football's race problem resurfaces after Garcia's Senegal remarks

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Rudi Garcia's comments about Senegal's tactical structure, along with other pundit remarks, have reignited scrutiny over racially coded language in World Cup commentary, drawing criticism from scholars and anti-racism advocates who argue such language perpetuates harmful stereotypes about Black players and African teams.

How Bishnoi's No-Balls Cost India Victory In Manchester

How Bishnoi's No-Balls Cost India Victory In Manchester

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Ishan Kishan believes India must solve their middle-overs slowdown and adapt better to English conditions to find the extra runs after suffering a four-wicket defeat against England in the second T20 International in Manchester on Saturday.

Modric undergoes cheekbone surgery ahead of World Cup

Modric undergoes cheekbone surgery ahead of World Cup

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Croatia and AC Milan's Luka Modric sustained the injury following a clash of heads with Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli during their Serie A match on Sunday.

Punjab cop shifted as FBI probes transnational extortion racket

Punjab cop shifted as FBI probes transnational extortion racket

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

A Station House Officer (SHO) in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, has been shifted to Police Lines following a fact-finding inquiry initiated by Punjab Police. This action comes after news reports linked the officer to an extortion-related investigation by the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) under "Operation Hard Ball," targeting India-based organised crime syndicates. The US indictment alleges the officer's involvement in a $400,000 extortion scheme using false murder charges, drawing significant political criticism.

'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.

'Tired' Messi savours record night as Argentina march on

'Tired' Messi savours record night as Argentina march on

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Lionel Messi has become the most prolific scorer in World Cup history, netting two goals in Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria. This achievement, which saw him surpass Brazilian great Marta's record of 17 goals, also secured Argentina's place in the knockout stage with a game to spare. Despite missing a penalty, Messi expressed satisfaction with the team's performance and the crucial win.

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.

'Advise Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to be patient'

'Advise Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to be patient'

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is yet to make his India T20I debut despite all the hype and former India keeper Parthiv Patel reckons he will get his opportunity sometime in the ongoing series against England.

ICC Rankings: Abhishek loses No 1 T20I spot as Kishan takes over

ICC Rankings: Abhishek loses No 1 T20I spot as Kishan takes over

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Ishan Kishan has ascended to the No.1 spot in the ICC T20I batting rankings, surpassing Abhishek Sharma after strong performances, including at the T20 World Cup. Jasprit Bumrah now leads the Test bowling rankings, while Travis Head is the top Test batter. The latest ICC rankings also show significant movements for other players across T20I and Test formats.

Sports Ministry Backs Paralympic Stars With Crucial Overseas Training

Sports Ministry Backs Paralympic Stars With Crucial Overseas Training

Rediff.com25 Jun 2026

The Sports Ministry's Mission Olympic Cell (MOC) has sanctioned Rs 35.46 lakh for overseas training stints for Paralympic medallists Ajeet Singh (javelin) and Pranav Soorma (club throw) to prepare them for the upcoming Asian Para-Games in Japan. Both athletes, part of the TOPS core group, will train in Germany and Czechia respectively, with Pranav also participating in multiple championships.

Raman: Mature Harmanpreet Leading India's Most Complete Women's Team

Raman: Mature Harmanpreet Leading India's Most Complete Women's Team

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Former India coach WV Raman believes the current women's team is the strongest in the country's history and has all the ingredients to win a maiden T20 World Cup, provided the pace attack delivers in key moments.

Argentina's title defence faces first test against fearless Algeria

Argentina's title defence faces first test against fearless Algeria

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Argentina start their bid for back-to-back World Cups on Tuesday with a side full of familiar faces from Qatar 2022, facing an Algerian team buoyed by warm-up wins and featuring a 20-year-old rising star nicknamed after Diego Maradona.

'Sooryavanshi Would Have Taken Their Pants Off'

'Sooryavanshi Would Have Taken Their Pants Off'

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

'Which fast bowler did he spare? And you're making him warm the bench.'

SIR focused on voter exclusion, disturbed free and fair elections: Ex-CEC Quraishi

SIR focused on voter exclusion, disturbed free and fair elections: Ex-CEC Quraishi

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Former Chief Election Commissioner S Y Quraishi has strongly criticised the Election Commission's ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, stating it is 'focussed more on exclusion' and has 'played havoc with democracy' by disturbing free and fair elections.

Why July 13 is special for Indian cricket

Why July 13 is special for Indian cricket

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Former India Women's cricketer Reema Malhotra has hailed the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side's historic Test victory over England at Lord's, drawing parallels between their win and Sourav Ganguly's iconic balcony celebration in 2002, stating, 'July 13 has become a memorable date in Indian cricket history.'

Time For India To Unleash Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Time For India To Unleash Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Rediff.com2 Jul 2026

After yet another failure for Sanju Samson -- his third in a row -- 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could make his India debut in the second T20I against England on Saturday.

Cricket Doesn't Respect Reputation; It Respects Courage

Cricket Doesn't Respect Reputation; It Respects Courage

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

This is not just a historic series sweep for Ireland, but for world cricket itself. To beat India, which hasn't been beaten in 16 series over three years, is truly remarkable.