News for 'former players'

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

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

Rediff.com7 days ago

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.

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.com1 days ago

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.

Former England captain and manager Kevin Keegan dies at 75

Former England captain and manager Kevin Keegan dies at 75

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Keegan's family and Newcastle announced in January that the two-time European Footballer of the Year was undergoing cancer treatment, without disclosing details of his illness.

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.com21 hours ago

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.

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

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

Rediff.com6 days ago

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.

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

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

Rediff.com6 days ago

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.

Who Will Replace Ajit Agarkar As Chairman Of Selectors?

Who Will Replace Ajit Agarkar As Chairman Of Selectors?

Rediff.com5 days ago

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.

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.com4 days ago

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.

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.com1 days ago

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.

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.com2 days ago

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.

Gambhir reveals why Samson was dropped for England tour

Gambhir reveals why Samson was dropped for England tour

Rediff.com5 days ago

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.

'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.

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.com17 hours ago

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.

Indian-Origin Players In Australian Squad For MRF Academy Training

Indian-Origin Players In Australian Squad For MRF Academy Training

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Two Indian-origin players, Aryan Sharma and Jason Sangha, are part of the Australian men's development squad heading to Chennai for the MRF Pace Academy program. The squad will undergo training and play multi-day matches on spin-friendly pitches from August 1-13, aiming to provide valuable development opportunities.

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.

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.

Young cricketer Vansh Bedi reports corrupt approach in Delhi Premier League

Young cricketer Vansh Bedi reports corrupt approach in Delhi Premier League

Rediff.com17 hours ago

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.

Why Indian Shooters Must Target Individual Glory At Asian Games

Why Indian Shooters Must Target Individual Glory At Asian Games

Rediff.com7 days ago

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.

Lakshya Sen Inspires Indian Men To Asian Games Badminton Medal

Lakshya Sen Inspires Indian Men To Asian Games Badminton Medal

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Indian men's badminton team secured a medal at the Asian Games by defeating Japan 3-0 in the quarterfinals, highlighted by Lakshya Sen's incredible comeback victory. While the men celebrated, the women's team exited the tournament after a 1-3 loss to Japan.

Teqball: When Football Meets Table Tennis

Teqball: When Football Meets Table Tennis

Rediff.com4 days ago

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

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.

Padikkal, Sudharsan in focus as India A gear up for Australia A Challenge

Padikkal, Sudharsan in focus as India A gear up for Australia A Challenge

Rediff.com1 days ago

As India A face Australia A in a crucial four-day match, attention centers on left-handers Devdutt Padikkal and Sai Sudharsan competing for top-order positions ahead of major Test series.

Ronaldo retained for Nations League title defense despite retirement hints

Ronaldo retained for Nations League title defense despite retirement hints

Rediff.com4 days ago

New Portugal manager Jorge Jesus included 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo in his first squad for upcoming Nations League matches, emphasising that team selection will strictly depend on current performance.

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.

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.

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.

Khalin Joshi Fires Career-Low 61 To Dominate Bengaluru Open

Khalin Joshi Fires Career-Low 61 To Dominate Bengaluru Open

Rediff.com21 hours ago

Khalin Joshi, fresh off a win, shot a career-low 11-under 61 to take a four-shot lead at the Bengaluru Open 2026. The local golfer's bogey-free round included an eagle and nine birdies. Teenager Manoj S is in second place, while the tournament is crucial for players to retain their playing rights on the DP World PGTI tour.

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.

'This Pakistan Team Looks Dispirited'

'This Pakistan Team Looks Dispirited'

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Former England cricketer Michael Atherton has sharply criticised Pakistan's batting performance in the final Test against England, highlighting their "woefully low confidence" and "dispirited" state. The team was skittled out for just 133 runs, failing to cross 200 even once in the series, with key players like Babar Azam and Abdullah Shafique struggling. Atherton attributes this decline partly to the controversial decision to send home seven players and two coaches. Despite the batting struggles, young pacer Razaullah offered a glimmer of hope with an impressive bowling display.

McCullum: Pietersen Must Challenge England's White-Ball Setup

McCullum: Pietersen Must Challenge England's White-Ball Setup

Rediff.com15 Sep 2026

England's white-ball head coach Brendon McCullum has encouraged newly-appointed mentor Kevin Pietersen to actively challenge the team's approach and suggest improvements, leveraging his "incredible pedigree as a player."

Goan GM Leon Mendonca Wins Back-to-Back Global Chess League Titles

Goan GM Leon Mendonca Wins Back-to-Back Global Chess League Titles

Rediff.com7 days ago

Goan Grandmaster Leon Luke Mendonca won his second straight Global Chess League title as Ganges Grandmasters defeated defending champions Alpine SG Pipers.

China's young guns face Japan test at Asian Games

China's young guns face Japan test at Asian Games

Rediff.com7 days ago

China's dominant table tennis team is preparing for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, bringing a mix of Olympic champions and young debutants. They are wary of the host nation Japan, particularly in the women's game, while also focusing on developing talent for the 2028 Olympics.

How Shah Rukh's Chak De! India Inspires Indonesian Hockey Team At Asian Games 2026

How Shah Rukh's Chak De! India Inspires Indonesian Hockey Team At Asian Games 2026

Rediff.com6 days ago

Indonesian hockey players, particularly Ferdian Fathur Rahman and Firdaus Muhammad, are deeply inspired by the Bollywood film "Chak De! India" as they prepare to face India at the Asian Games.

Next-Gen Golf Star Veer Ganapathy Ready For IGPL Challenge

Next-Gen Golf Star Veer Ganapathy Ready For IGPL Challenge

Rediff.com5 days ago

Veer Ganapathy, son of renowned golfer Rahul Ganapathy, is set to represent Bengaluru Stallions in the AM Green IGPL 2026. The team, also featuring Trishul Chinnappa, Sunhit Bishnoi, and Sudhir Sharma, was unveiled for the second season of India's first franchise-based professional golf league. The IGPL aims to promote golf beyond elite circles and provide exposure to young talent.

Asian Games: India women lose to Japan in women's team quarter-finals

Asian Games: India women lose to Japan in women's team quarter-finals

Rediff.com1 days ago

The Indian women's badminton team was eliminated from the Asian Games after a 1-3 loss to Japan in the quarterfinals. While the doubles pair of Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand secured a win, singles players PV Sindhu, Unnati Hooda, and Tanvi Sharma were defeated by their Japanese counterparts, leading to India's exit from the tournament.

First Indian Coach At CSK! Can Zaheer Revive Men In Yellow?

First Indian Coach At CSK! Can Zaheer Revive Men In Yellow?

Rediff.com1 days ago

New head coach Zaheer Khan's biggest challenge at CSK will be to decide on the future of talisman Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who incidentally recommended him for the top post.

Asian Games: Quimcy blows 1-set lead, still has bronze to chase

Asian Games: Quimcy blows 1-set lead, still has bronze to chase

Rediff.com4 days ago

Indian Teqball player Quimcy Dsouza lost her Asian Games women's singles semifinal to Indonesia's Sumaya in a gruelling three-game match. Despite a strong start, Dsouza, a former state-level footballer, was overcome by Sumaya's sepak takraw background. Dsouza will now compete in the bronze medal playoff, aiming for a podium finish in Teqball's debut at the Asian Games.

Pakistan Cricket Board probes 'discipline and conduct' after England Test losses

Pakistan Cricket Board probes 'discipline and conduct' after England Test losses

Rediff.com7 Sep 2026

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has launched an internal disciplinary inquiry following media reports of 'discipline and conduct' issues during the ongoing tour of England, which saw seven players recalled after successive Test losses.

Months after Nitin Patel's Exit, BCCI still searching for CoE Sports Science head

Months after Nitin Patel's Exit, BCCI still searching for CoE Sports Science head

Rediff.com11 Sep 2026

The BCCI has opened applications for the Head of Sports Science and Medicine position at its Centre of Excellence, a role that has remained vacant since March 2025 despite previous attempts to fill it. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership for sports science and medicine services, focusing on player welfare, injury prevention, and rehabilitation for elite Indian cricketers.

Why Did Gambhir Meet Amit Shah?

Why Did Gambhir Meet Amit Shah?

Rediff.com1 days ago

'A warm meeting with Hon'ble Home Minister Shri @AmitShahji. Grateful for his time and guidance. Wishing him continued good health and well-being.'