News for 'former players'

How A Ronaldinho Reel Changed Quimcy's Sporting Journey

How A Ronaldinho Reel Changed Quimcy's Sporting Journey

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

Quimcy Dsouza, a former Maharashtra footballer, made an unconventional journey to the Asian Games teqball semifinals after discovering the sport through Ronaldinho. Despite a defeat, she expressed pride in her performance and her role in pioneering teqball in India, highlighting the challenges of limited funding and her dedication to growing the sport.

Yuvraj's 2027 World Cup warning: 'Stick to the team'

Yuvraj's 2027 World Cup warning: 'Stick to the team'

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Legendary Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has provided crucial insights into India's preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup, advocating for squad continuity and consistent game time for players. He stressed the importance of avoiding last-minute changes and building belief within the chosen squad, drawing lessons from past tournament performances. Yuvraj also highlighted the need for a balanced team with match-winners, adaptable to various conditions, echoing Australia's successful World Cup strategy.

BCCI President Mithun Manhas praises Indian team for retaining Asian Games gold

BCCI President Mithun Manhas praises Indian team for retaining Asian Games gold

Rediff.com4 Oct 2026

BCCI President Mithun Manhas lauded the Indian men's cricket team for retaining their Asian Games gold medal, highlighting their exceptional performance under pressure against arch-rivals Pakistan and commending individual contributions from players like Tilak Varma and Abhishek Sharma.

'Smriti Mandhana's extreme domination against spinners sets new benchmark'

'Smriti Mandhana's extreme domination against spinners sets new benchmark'

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Former India captain Anjum Chopra praises Smriti Mandhana's evolved power game and dominance against spinners, calling it a blueprint for younger players in women's T20 cricket.

The inside story of Bhuvneshwar Kumar's surprise recall after four-year India exile

The inside story of Bhuvneshwar Kumar's surprise recall after four-year India exile

Rediff.com6 Oct 2026

Bhuvneshwar Kumar, despite being written off in 2022, is set to make a national comeback in 2026, showcasing his enduring swing bowling prowess and strong work ethic, particularly after stellar performances in the IPL.

'Individual results do not matter in the Davis Cup': Sumit Nagal

'Individual results do not matter in the Davis Cup': Sumit Nagal

Rediff.com17 Sep 2026

Sumit Nagal, India's top singles player, believes sheer desire will be crucial in the Davis Cup qualifier against Korea, especially on the slow Seoul courts.

Pietersen's Spin Masterclass: England's Secret Weapon for World Cup Success

Pietersen's Spin Masterclass: England's Secret Weapon for World Cup Success

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

England's white-ball captain Harry Brook revealed that former Ashes and T20 World Cup-winning batter Kevin Pietersen has been instrumental in teaching the squad how to effectively play spin.

India's World Cup failure exposes hockey's selection and transition problem

India's World Cup failure exposes hockey's selection and transition problem

Rediff.com25 Aug 2026

The Indian men's hockey team's failure to reach the semi-finals of the World Cup has highlighted significant issues, including a lack of intent in player transition and questionable selection decisions, according to former players and experts.

Zidane's France held by Italy; Belgium whip Turkey

Zidane's France held by Italy; Belgium whip Turkey

Rediff.com3 Oct 2026

Zinedine Zidane's France were held to a 1-1 draw by Italy in their Nations League match at the Stade de France. Michael Olise opened the scoring for France, but Alessandro Bastoni equalised for Italy. The match also saw France reduced to 10 men late in the game. In another Group A1 fixture, Belgium secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Turkey.

India's Top Women Golfers Gear Up For Hero Indian Open At DLF

India's Top Women Golfers Gear Up For Hero Indian Open At DLF

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

The 13th Leg of the Women's Pro Golf Tour in Gurugram features a record 60 players, serving as a crucial warm-up for the upcoming Hero Women's Indian Open. Top Indian golfers, including Diksha Dagar and Gaurika Bishnoi, are participating to familiarise themselves with the challenging DLF Golf & Country Club course, which will host both events.

Mumbai Indians name Luke Williams as new head coach for WPL 2027

Mumbai Indians name Luke Williams as new head coach for WPL 2027

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Mumbai Indians have appointed Luke Williams as their new head coach for the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2027 season, replacing Lisa Keightley who has decided to move on from the role.

Former India Hockey Captain Pargat Singh criticises saffron jersey, alleges BJP's 'petty mindset'

Former India Hockey Captain Pargat Singh criticises saffron jersey, alleges BJP's 'petty mindset'

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Congress MLA and former India Hockey Captain Pargat Singh has criticised the change in the Indian hockey team's national jersey colour from blue to saffron, alleging it reflects the BJP's mindset of 'giving everything a particular colour' and urging a focus on sports development instead.

KL Rahul, Prasidh Krishna named in Karnataka's Ranji Trophy opener vs Andhra

KL Rahul, Prasidh Krishna named in Karnataka's Ranji Trophy opener vs Andhra

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

India internationals KL Rahul and Prasidh Krishna have been named in Karnataka's squad for their Ranji Trophy season opener against Andhra. Rahul is expected to play to prepare for the New Zealand Test tour, while Prasidh's participation is uncertain due to injury. The squad, led by Ravichandran Smaran, also sees a new coaching staff and a new sponsorship deal for Karnataka teams.

Who Will Replace Ajit Agarkar As Chairman Of Selectors?

Who Will Replace Ajit Agarkar As Chairman Of Selectors?

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

The BCCI is set to take up an important matter at its 95th AGM in Mumbai on Friday -- the appointment of a new selector to replace outgoing chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar.

'Being a Sportsman Helped Me Fight Cancer': Muhammad Saqlain

'Being a Sportsman Helped Me Fight Cancer': Muhammad Saqlain

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Former Pakistan defensive hockey player Muhammad Saqlain has revealed his battle with stage four B oral cancer, stating that his sports background provided him with the fighting spirit needed to overcome the dreaded disease. He underwent an eight-hour surgery and is now undergoing immunotherapy for a full recovery, having kept his health issues private until now.

Gillespie on Pakistan crisis: 'They are playing with fear'

Gillespie on Pakistan crisis: 'They are playing with fear'

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Former Pakistan coach Jason Gillespie has strongly criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for its constant upheaval, including the 'disrespectful' sacking of players and frequent changes in coaching staff, which he believes creates instability and fear among players.

Satnam Singh-Salman Khan Script History With Asian Games Rowing Bronze

Satnam Singh-Salman Khan Script History With Asian Games Rowing Bronze

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Indian rowers Satnam Singh and Salman Khan have made history by securing the nation's first-ever men's double sculls medal at the Asian Games, finishing third.

India finally win 1st table tennis medal at Asian Games 2026

India finally win 1st table tennis medal at Asian Games 2026

Rediff.com25 Sep 2026

Indian table tennis mixed doubles pair Diya Chitale and Manush Shah secured a coveted Asian Games medal, overcoming a recent slump in form and the personal tragedy of Diya's coach Peter Engel's death. Their triumph is seen as a fitting tribute to Engel and fuels India's hopes for an Olympic medal in the future.

Injured knee, tears and bronze: Pincky makes history

Injured knee, tears and bronze: Pincky makes history

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Indian kurash athlete Pincky Balhara secured a bronze medal at the Asian Games despite suffering a knee injury during her quarterfinal bout. She revealed that the injury hampered her performance in the semifinal, preventing a higher finish. Balhara, a two-time Asian Games medallist, also highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by Indian kurash athletes due to the lack of a recognised national federation and reliance on private support.

Asian Games: Quimcy's Teqball gold dream ends, bronze still in sight

Asian Games: Quimcy's Teqball gold dream ends, bronze still in sight

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

India's Quimcy Dsouza lost her Teqball women's singles semifinal match to Indonesia's Sumaya in a gruelling three-game contest at the Asian Games. Despite the defeat, Dsouza remains in contention for a bronze medal and is scheduled to compete in the playoff.

England cricket braces for challenging winter after turbulent summer

England cricket braces for challenging winter after turbulent summer

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

England cricket experienced a turbulent home summer marked by Ben Stokes's unexpected retirement, the sacking of Test coach Brendon McCullum, and several off-field disciplinary incidents. Despite these challenges, the team achieved mixed results in various formats. They are now preparing for a demanding winter schedule, with Stephen Fleming taking over as the new Test coach, aiming for a more measured approach.

Satnam And Salman Secure India's First Men's Double Sculls Medal At Asian Games

Satnam And Salman Secure India's First Men's Double Sculls Medal At Asian Games

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Indian rowers Satnam Singh and Salman Khan secured a historic bronze medal in the men's double sculls at the Asian Games, marking India's first-ever medal in this event. Despite the achievement, both athletes expressed mixed feelings due to last-minute crew changes that they believe affected their performance. The bronze was a saving grace for the Indian team, which otherwise delivered one of its worst Asian Games rowing performances, equalling previous low tallies. The controversy surrounding team selections and the impact of weather disruptions on the competition schedule were also highlighted.

Gill fortunate to have Kohli, Rohit helping him, says coach Gambhir

Gill fortunate to have Kohli, Rohit helping him, says coach Gambhir

Rediff.com23 Sep 2026

India head coach Gautam Gambhir believes ODI and Test skipper Shubman Gill is fortunate to have the guidance of former captains Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Gambhir highlighted Gill's tough job as a young captain in team selection and expressed confidence in Gill's ability to turn around his one-day cricket performance ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup.

No doubts on skills of Rohit and Kohli, they must continue playing: Chetan Sharma

No doubts on skills of Rohit and Kohli, they must continue playing: Chetan Sharma

Rediff.com21 Sep 2026

Former India chief selector Chetan Sharma has voiced strong support for batting stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, asserting that their talent and skills are beyond doubt. He believes the duo, set to return for the ODI series against West Indies, should continue playing for India as long as they perform, dismissing age as a factor. Sharma also expressed confidence in the Indian women's team winning gold at the Asian Games.

Gambhir reveals why Samson was dropped for England tour

Gambhir reveals why Samson was dropped for England tour

Rediff.com18 Sep 2026

India head coach Gautam Gambhir revealed that dropping Sanju Samson from the England tour was his toughest decision, despite Samson being the Player of the Tournament in the T20 World Cup. Gambhir explained that while Samson was temporarily replaced by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the team prioritised returning to their established World Cup-winning combination. He also addressed the issue of player injuries and the challenge of Shubman Gill not having a full-strength team, emphasising the importance of long-term performance and providing opportunities for new talent.

Pranavi Urs, Saptak Talwar Lead India's Charge In Asian Games Golf

Pranavi Urs, Saptak Talwar Lead India's Charge In Asian Games Golf

Rediff.com30 Sep 2026

Indian golfers Pranavi Urs and Saptak Talwar delivered impressive performances on the opening day of the Asian Games, with Urs lying second in the individual women's standings and Talwar tied third among men. The Indian women's team is tied sixth, while the men's team is tied fifth, setting a promising tone for the competition.

Pincky Balhara's Asian Games Bronze: A Triumph Amidst Injury And Adversity

Pincky Balhara's Asian Games Bronze: A Triumph Amidst Injury And Adversity

Rediff.com28 Sep 2026

Indian kurash athlete Pincky Balhara secured a bronze medal at the Asian Games, becoming the most successful Indian in the sport at the event. Her achievement came despite suffering a knee injury during the quarterfinal, which was further targeted by her semifinal opponent. Balhara, who trains with boys at her uncle's academy due to the lack of a national federation, expressed disappointment over the injury preventing a higher finish.

Big call on India's openers ahead of Afghanistan T20I

Big call on India's openers ahead of Afghanistan T20I

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Former India cricketer Vivek Razdan has shared his preferred batting lineup for India's first T20I against Afghanistan, advocating for Shreyas Iyer to retain his number four spot and Sanju Samson to open the innings. Razdan emphasized performance over the left-right batting combination, highlighting Samson's recent T20 form. The series opener will also see a selection dilemma with multiple openers available and marks Iyer's first home series as captain.

Will Vijay's Magic Work In TN Bypolls?

Will Vijay's Magic Work In TN Bypolls?

Rediff.com1 Oct 2026

Assembly by-elections in Madurantakam and Dharapuram will offer an early measure of the TVK's electoral strength and put the dynamics of its new alliance in focus.

'There is some masala': Rohit on his bond with Kohli

'There is some masala': Rohit on his bond with Kohli

Rediff.com29 Sep 2026

Rohit Sharma has spoken about his long-standing bond with Virat Kohli, highlighting their strong relationship since their early international careers. He revealed they constantly help each other improve their game and share a deep camaraderie, despite changes in roles and less frequent meetings.

Sanath Jayasuriya hails teen sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as 'future' of Indian cricket

Sanath Jayasuriya hails teen sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as 'future' of Indian cricket

Rediff.com20 Sep 2026

Sri Lankan legend Sanath Jayasuriya has lauded Indian teen cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, calling him a 'different kind of talent' and the 'future for India', despite his recent exclusion from the playing XI against Afghanistan.

Why Indian Shooters Must Target Individual Glory At Asian Games

Why Indian Shooters Must Target Individual Glory At Asian Games

Rediff.com16 Sep 2026

Olympic silver medallist Vijay Kumar has urged the 30-member Indian shooting contingent for the Asian Games to prioritise individual medals over team events. He also highlighted the need for significant improvements in coaching, advocating for more former international medallists in the system, and stressed the importance of better grassroots talent identification, drawing comparisons with China. Kumar also commented on the void left by coach Jaspal Rana's death and questioned recent selection policies.

Szoboszlai Penalty Earns Liverpool Dramatic Draw With Newcastle

Szoboszlai Penalty Earns Liverpool Dramatic Draw With Newcastle

Rediff.com24 Aug 2026

Liverpool secured a dramatic 2-2 draw against Newcastle United at St James' Park, with Dominik Szoboszlai converting a stoppage-time penalty. The match also served as a tribute to the late Kevin Keegan, a shared hero for both clubs, with fans and former players honouring his legacy. Goals from Anthony Elanga and Joe Willock for Newcastle were cancelled out by Cody Gakpo and Szoboszlai's late equaliser for Liverpool.

Asencio walks free in sex-video case as Real Madrid open disciplinary proceedings

Asencio walks free in sex-video case as Real Madrid open disciplinary proceedings

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

Real Madrid defender Raul Asencio was acquitted after prosecutors dropped sex-video sharing charges, while three former youth players received suspended sentences and the club opened disciplinary proceedings.

Suresh Raina underlines Rohit, Kohli's importance in ODI World Cup push

Suresh Raina underlines Rohit, Kohli's importance in ODI World Cup push

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Suresh Raina backed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's experience and trophy-winning pedigree, saying their presence gives India a "90 per cent chance" of winning the World Cup.

Wasim Akram Says Pakistan Cricket Problems Are 'Deep Rooted'

Wasim Akram Says Pakistan Cricket Problems Are 'Deep Rooted'

Rediff.com9 Sep 2026

Wasim Akram explains why Pakistan continues to struggle, highlighting problems in batting, bowling, fielding and the domestic first-class structure.

Teqball: When Football Meets Table Tennis

Teqball: When Football Meets Table Tennis

Rediff.com19 Sep 2026

Teqball has made its Asian Games debut in Nagoya, bringing together football skills, acrobatics and the fast-paced rallies of table tennis.

Young cricketer Vansh Bedi reports corrupt approach in Delhi Premier League

Young cricketer Vansh Bedi reports corrupt approach in Delhi Premier League

Rediff.com22 Sep 2026

Young Delhi cricketer Vansh Bedi reported an alleged corrupt approach during the Delhi Premier League (DPL) to the league's Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU). The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) has informed the BCCI and initiated an inquiry into the unverified allegations, reaffirming its zero-tolerance stance on corruption.

Satnam Singh And Salman Khan Win Historic Bronze For India In Double Sculls

Satnam Singh And Salman Khan Win Historic Bronze For India In Double Sculls

Rediff.com24 Sep 2026

Satnam Singh and Salman Khan secured India's first-ever men's double sculls bronze medal at the Asian Games in Nagoya, a significant achievement amidst a backdrop of internal team controversy regarding last-minute crew changes. The performance, however, highlighted one of India's worst rowing showings in Asian Games history, equalling previous low tallies.

Warner hits back at Barmy Army after England fans take aim at his Ashes record

Warner hits back at Barmy Army after England fans take aim at his Ashes record

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

David Warner traded playful social-media barbs with the Barmy Army, responding to jibes about his England record with digs at recent English players' disciplinary troubles.