News for 'former players'

Alexander Zverev's US Open Victory: A Tribute to Family and Overcoming Diabetes

Alexander Zverev's US Open Victory: A Tribute to Family and Overcoming Diabetes

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Alexander Zverev's recent US Open victory is a testament to his family's unwavering support, particularly his mother Irina, who ensured his type 1 diabetes never hindered his tennis ambitions, transforming him from a 'nearly man' to a two-time major champion.

'Is This How You Groom Players?' Srikkanth Slams Iyer

'Is This How You Groom Players?' Srikkanth Slams Iyer

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The decision to bring in and then drop Vaibhav Sooryavanshi during India's T20I series against England has raised eyebrows, and former captain Kris Srikkanth has shared his disappointment over the way the youngster was handled.

Naman Dhir's bat-and-ball skillset could complete India's ODI combination: Irfan Pathan

Naman Dhir's bat-and-ball skillset could complete India's ODI combination: Irfan Pathan

Rediff.com3 days ago

Naman Dhir's batting flexibility and useful off-spin could address a missing role in India's ODI setup, with Irfan Pathan highlighting his potential following a standout domestic T20 campaign.

Asian Games 2026: Indian men outclass Japan; assured of medal in badminton team event

Asian Games 2026: Indian men outclass Japan; assured of medal in badminton team event

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Indian men's badminton team defeated hosts Japan in the Asian Games quarterfinals, securing a medal.

'Due reward': Ian Bishop hails Shafali Verma after landmark T20I century

'Due reward': Ian Bishop hails Shafali Verma after landmark T20I century

Rediff.com3 days ago

Shafali Verma smashed an unbeaten 100 off 49 balls against Bangladesh, becoming the first Indian woman to score an Asian Games century and strengthening her record-breaking 2026 T20I campaign.

PIX: Harry Brook scores 114 off 49 balls as England crush Sri Lanka in first T20I

PIX: Harry Brook scores 114 off 49 balls as England crush Sri Lanka in first T20I

Rediff.com7 days ago

England secured a commanding 119-run victory over Sri Lanka in the first T20 international. Harry Brook's unbeaten 114 off 42 balls, supported by Jos Buttler's 80, propelled England to a massive total of 254-4. Sri Lanka struggled in their chase, being bowled out for 135, with Sonny Baker taking 3 wickets. This win gives England a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

'Mahi Bhai's Presence Brings Positivity': Akash Madhwal

'Mahi Bhai's Presence Brings Positivity': Akash Madhwal

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Akash Madhwal opens up on MS Dhoni's influence at CSK, Rohit Sharma's role at MI and the positive team culture behind both franchises' success.

Deepika Credits Mentors For Record-Breaking Asian Games Performance

Deepika Credits Mentors For Record-Breaking Asian Games Performance

Rediff.com4 hours ago

Indian hockey drag-flicker Deepika has made headlines at the Asian Games with a record-breaking 20 goals across three matches, including nine in a single game. The 23-year-old attributes her success not just to her wrestling family's athletic genes but to years of dedicated training and the guidance of coaches Azad Singh, Rupinder Pal Singh, and Taeke Taekema. Despite a career-threatening injury last year, Deepika has made a strong comeback, focusing on skill, consistency, and discipline, with an eye on Olympic qualification.

Former MHA Official: Pak Cricket Teams Trafficked Drugs in India, Linked to Woolmer's Death

Former MHA Official: Pak Cricket Teams Trafficked Drugs in India, Linked to Woolmer's Death

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

R V S Mani, former Under Secretary of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, has alleged that drug trafficking was a regular practice by Pakistani cricket teams and delegations visiting India, linking it to the 2006 doping scandal involving Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif, and even the death of coach Bob Woolmer.

'Ciao Capitano': Milan says goodbye to Baresi

'Ciao Capitano': Milan says goodbye to Baresi

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Fans, former teammates, and opponents gathered in Milan to bid farewell to Franco Baresi, the iconic AC Milan and Italy defender who passed away at 66. Baresi, a legendary figure in Italian football, was remembered for his illustrious 20-year career with AC Milan and his contributions to the Italian national team.

Sandhu And Danek Share Lead At Chennai Open

Sandhu And Danek Share Lead At Chennai Open

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Ajeetesh Sandhu and Stepan Danek are joint leaders after the first round of the Chennai Open, both carding seven-under 65s. Sandhu, a former Asian Tour winner, made eight birdies, while Danek played a flawless round with seven birdies. Other notable players like Jairaj Singh Sandhu and Saptak Talwar are also in contention.

'Retire!': Fans Lash Out At Sanju Samson

'Retire!': Fans Lash Out At Sanju Samson

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Following a disappointing performance against Afghanistan, Sanju Samson's inconsistent form has once again put his place in India's T20I squad under intense scrutiny.

Muhammad Yousuf calls Pakistan coaches 'poison' as technical flaws haunt Babar and Co

Muhammad Yousuf calls Pakistan coaches 'poison' as technical flaws haunt Babar and Co

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

Muhammad Yousuf branded Pakistan's coaches "poison for the game", blaming their lack of vision for neglected batting flaws that worsened over years and contributed to the team's decline.

MCA launches Ajinkya Rahane Scholarship Fund to nurture young talent

MCA launches Ajinkya Rahane Scholarship Fund to nurture young talent

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

The Mumbai Cricket Association has established the Ajinkya Rahane Scholarship Fund, backed by Sharad Pawar, to support grassroots cricketers and develop Mumbai's Maidans.

'The world is laughing harder now': Khawaja mocks Aaqib Javed

'The world is laughing harder now': Khawaja mocks Aaqib Javed

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Former Australia batter Usman Khawaja has criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board's director of high performance, Aaqib Javed, over his comments regarding the team's major shake-up during the Test series against England.

IN-SPACe's Growing Role Raises ISRO Concerns

IN-SPACe's Growing Role Raises ISRO Concerns

Rediff.com7 days ago

'IN-SPACe like an octopus is stretching its tentacles everywhere and choking ISRO.'

How AI And A Smartphone Could Change Cricket Coaching

How AI And A Smartphone Could Change Cricket Coaching

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Can AI transform grassroots 'If technology can help develop players a little quicker and make coaching more informed, then it has done its job.'

Brazil Legend Cafu Sees India Friendly As Key Learning Opportunity

Brazil Legend Cafu Sees India Friendly As Key Learning Opportunity

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Brazil's legendary captain Cafu advises the Indian national football team to view their upcoming friendly match against five-time world champions Brazil as a crucial learning experience for future World Cup cycles, rather than just a spectacle. He highlights Brazil's strong connection with Kolkata and identifies promising young Brazilian talents for the future.

Ricky Ponting: US Cricket's Growth Slower Than Expected, But 2028 Olympics Offer Hope

Ricky Ponting: US Cricket's Growth Slower Than Expected, But 2028 Olympics Offer Hope

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting expressed his belief that the growth of cricket in the United States has been slower than anticipated, but he remains optimistic about its potential, especially with the US national team's increasing competitiveness and the sport's inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Ibrahim Zadran: Embracing T20I Captaincy, Learning Under Pressure

Ibrahim Zadran: Embracing T20I Captaincy, Learning Under Pressure

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Afghanistan's new T20I captain, Ibrahim Zadran, is focused on enjoying his new role, taking responsibility, and making sound decisions under pressure, especially with the upcoming series in India.

Former Wimbledon champion Vondrousova hit with 4-year ban

Former Wimbledon champion Vondrousova hit with 4-year ban

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Former Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova has been banned for four years after missing a doping test, leading the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA) to demand a greater say for athletes in anti-doping regulations. Vondrousova cited safety concerns for not opening her door to a doping control officer late at night, while the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) maintains that unpredictable testing is crucial for clean sport.

Why Test Cricket Remains The Mother Of All Formats

Why Test Cricket Remains The Mother Of All Formats

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Former India fast bowler Javagal Srinath has underscored the critical role of Test cricket in developing depth within the game, despite the growing popularity of the T20 format. Speaking at an awards ceremony, Srinath advised young players to prioritise Test cricket, noting the difficulty for T20 specialists to transition to the longer format. He also stressed the responsibility of cricket associations, parents, and coaches in guiding emerging talent.

Cricket Fraternity Extends Independence Day Greetings

Cricket Fraternity Extends Independence Day Greetings

Rediff.com15 Aug 2026

Indian men's cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir, the BCCI, and former cricketer Irfan Pathan led tributes on India's 80th Independence Day, honouring freedom fighters and extending greetings to all Indians.

Carlos Alcaraz says 'too much nipple' as US Open tank top sparks online frenzy

Carlos Alcaraz says 'too much nipple' as US Open tank top sparks online frenzy

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Carlos Alcaraz swapped his headline-making tank top for an undershirt after revealing too much chest, then beat Wu Yibing in straight sets to reach the US Open fourth round.

Sandhu Extends Dominant Lead At Chennai Open

Sandhu Extends Dominant Lead At Chennai Open

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Ajeetesh Sandhu extended his lead to three shots at the Chennai Open after a bogey-free 68 in the third round, moving to 17-under 199. Viraj Madappa climbed to second with a day's lowest 63, while Stepan Danek slipped to third. The tournament is part of the Race to DP World India Championship.

Real Madrid's Valverde headlines Uruguay squad for India friendly

Real Madrid's Valverde headlines Uruguay squad for India friendly

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Uruguay has announced a star-studded squad, including Real Madrid's Federico Valverde and Liverpool's Darwin Nunez, for an international friendly against India in Kolkata on October 6. The match will also mark Diego Forlan's debut as head coach for Uruguay, who will also face Panama and Brazil in other friendlies.

Brazil Legend Cafu On India's Historic Friendly: A Learning Opportunity

Brazil Legend Cafu On India's Historic Friendly: A Learning Opportunity

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Brazil football legend Cafu has advised the Indian national team to view their upcoming friendly against Brazil on October 3 in Kolkata as a crucial learning experience rather than just a spectacle. He emphasised the match's importance for India's preparation for the 2030 World Cup cycle and highlighted Brazil's deep connection with Kolkata, referencing Pele's historic visit. Cafu also discussed the future of Brazilian football and his unique World Cup record.

Saffron jersey row deepens rift within Hockey India

Saffron jersey row deepens rift within Hockey India

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

A controversy has erupted within Hockey India over the national teams' new saffron jerseys, replacing the traditional blue.

Dewald Brevis equals Duminy's six-hitting record, joins South Africa's elite

Dewald Brevis equals Duminy's six-hitting record, joins South Africa's elite

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

Dewald "AB Baby" Brevis equalled JP Duminy's 71 sixes in just 35 T20Is, starred with 226 series runs, won Player of the Series, and helped South Africa clinch the title.

Pakistan Cricket Board launches inquiry into Imam-ul-Haq's controversial injury

Pakistan Cricket Board launches inquiry into Imam-ul-Haq's controversial injury

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq has returned home from England amidst a PCB inquiry into his calf muscle injury, which is suspected to be faked. This follows the team's poor performance and drastic measures taken by the board, including sending players home and replacing coaches. Imam-ul-Haq has a history of similar injury allegations.

Former India Captain Asunta Lakra Calls For NCW Inquiry Into Hockey India Sexual Harassment Allegations

Former India Captain Asunta Lakra Calls For NCW Inquiry Into Hockey India Sexual Harassment Allegations

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Former India captain Asunta Lakra has written to the National Commission for Women (NCW), requesting an independent inquiry into the handling of sexual harassment complaints at Hockey India and its affiliated organisations. Lakra alleges institutional failure, deliberate inaction, and intimidation of complainants, specifically accusing Hockey India secretary general Bholanath Singh of threatening her after she raised concerns about alleged misconduct by Jharkhand coach Sudhir Gola. She also highlighted multiple complaints since January 2025 and caste-based humiliation of tribal players.

Check Out The IPL's Highest Earning Coaches

Check Out The IPL's Highest Earning Coaches

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Ricky Ponting and Ashish Nehra are reportedly the highest-earning coaches in the Indian Premier League, each commanding approximately Rs 9.5 crore per season for their roles with Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans, respectively.

Misbah-ul-Haq Steps Down From Pakistan Selection Committee Amidst Major Squad Changes

Misbah-ul-Haq Steps Down From Pakistan Selection Committee Amidst Major Squad Changes

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq has resigned from the men's national selection committee and as a batting consultant at the National Cricket Academy.

Suryakumar Yadav vows hard work for India return

Suryakumar Yadav vows hard work for India return

Rediff.com27 Aug 2026

Former India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav, who lost his spot in the national team after struggles with form and an inconsistent IPL season, has stated he is working hard for a comeback. The 35-year-old, a key player for Mumbai Indians, last played for India in Tests and ODIs in 2023.

Sunil Chhetri Expresses 'Jealousy' Over India's Upcoming Matches Against Brazil And Uruguay

Sunil Chhetri Expresses 'Jealousy' Over India's Upcoming Matches Against Brazil And Uruguay

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Former India captain Sunil Chhetri admitted to feeling "a little jealous" about the current national team getting the chance to play against footballing powerhouses Brazil and Uruguay, an opportunity he never had during his extensive international career. He expressed excitement for the team while also backing the coach's selection decisions and encouraging the young talent.

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

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

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

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.

Geoffrey Boycott picks Ravindra Jadeja over modern greats in surprise all-time favourite

Geoffrey Boycott picks Ravindra Jadeja over modern greats in surprise all-time favourite

Rediff.com2 Sep 2026

Ravindra Jadeja's rare ability to influence matches with bat, ball and outstanding fielding has earned him Geoffrey Boycott's admiration, placing the Indian veteran above several modern batting greats.

'I didn't have any support': Steve Smith Opens Up On 2018 Ball-Tampering Scandal In South Africa

'I didn't have any support': Steve Smith Opens Up On 2018 Ball-Tampering Scandal In South Africa

Rediff.com6 days ago

Former Australia captain Steve Smith has revealed he felt 'thrown to the wolves' following the 2018 ball-tampering scandal, admitting he still experiences flashbacks to the media frenzy upon his return home.

Usain Bolt reacts to robot breaking his 100m world record: 'It just made me smile'

Usain Bolt reacts to robot breaking his 100m world record: 'It just made me smile'

Rediff.com14 Sep 2026

Eight-time Olympic champion Usain Bolt expressed amusement rather than frustration upon learning that a robot in China had broken his 100-metres world record by almost a second, stating, 'It just made me smile.'

After dream revival, Carrick faces his biggest test yet in Manchester derby

After dream revival, Carrick faces his biggest test yet in Manchester derby

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

Michael Carrick faces his biggest test as Manchester United's permanent manager when rising expectations, an indifferent league start and last season's revival meet Manchester City in Sunday's derby.