News for 'former players'

Chelsea sign veteran midfielder Jordan Henderson on two-year deal

Chelsea sign veteran midfielder Jordan Henderson on two-year deal

Rediff.com4 Aug 2026

Chelsea have announced the signing of experienced midfielder Jordan Henderson on a two-year contract after his departure from Brentford, marking a significant addition to their squad ahead of the new Premier League season.

Should Sarfaraz Khan Make India's Playing XI at Galle?

Should Sarfaraz Khan Make India's Playing XI at Galle?

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

As India prepares for their two-match Test series against Sri Lanka starting August 15, the team management faces critical decisions regarding their playing XI to bolster their World Test Championship 2027 final aspirations.

'Spain never allowed Mbappe to get into the game'

'Spain never allowed Mbappe to get into the game'

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Former India internationals analyse Spain's dominant performance and tactical discipline that led them to the FIFA World Cup final, highlighting their defensive solidity and adaptability.

Who are the key players in the US-Iran peace deal?

Who are the key players in the US-Iran peace deal?

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

US President Donald Trump announced a finalised peace deal between the US and Iran, set for signing on June 19 in Switzerland, with key figures like J D Vance, Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner from the US side, and Abbas Araghchi and Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf representing Iran, alongside Pakistani mediators Field Marshal Asim Munir, Shehbaz Sharif, Ishaq Dar, and Mohsin Naqvi, playing crucial roles in the diplomatic breakthrough.

Rahane shares untold story of his bond with Kohli

Rahane shares untold story of his bond with Kohli

Rediff.com5 Aug 2026

Former Indian cricketer Ajinkya Rahane revealed that Virat Kohli would never share the 'secrets and calculations' behind his masterful white-ball chasing abilities, even with teammates. Rahane also highlighted the strong camaraderie and complementary playing styles that made their Test partnership successful.

FIFA World Cup: Germany star Schweinsteiger in racism storm

FIFA World Cup: Germany star Schweinsteiger in racism storm

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Ivory Coast coach Emerse Fae said comments from World Cup winner Bastian Schweinsteiger could be labelled racist after the ex-Germany midfielder described African football as "wild" and "unorthodox".

How Badminton's New Scoring System Will Impact Players: Sindhu Explains

How Badminton's New Scoring System Will Impact Players: Sindhu Explains

Rediff.com15 May 2026

PV Sindhu believes badminton's new 15-point scoring format will favour attacking players but will also be physically and mentally demanding. The BWF's approved system will be implemented from January 2027.

Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala apologises for World Cup final brawl

Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala apologises for World Cup final brawl

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala has apologised for his altercation with Spain midfielder Dani Olmo following the chaotic World Cup final, an incident now under investigation by FIFA.

Veteran Midfielder Luka Modric Signs AC Milan Extension

Veteran Midfielder Luka Modric Signs AC Milan Extension

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

AC Milan midfielder Luka Modric has signed a contract extension, committing his future to the Serie A club until June 2027. The 40-year-old Croatian international, who joined Milan last year, has made 37 appearances and scored two goals.

AITA President Parikh Accuses Court-Appointed Administrator Of Financial Exploitation

AITA President Parikh Accuses Court-Appointed Administrator Of Financial Exploitation

Rediff.com25 Jul 2026

Interim All India Tennis Association (AITA) President Chintan Parikh has accused court-appointed administrator Justice (Retd.) Gita Mittal of financial exploitation and procedural bias, alleging that her actions are draining the sports body's finances and compromising its autonomy.

'Red cards are not overturned by political phone calls'

'Red cards are not overturned by political phone calls'

Rediff.com6 Jul 2026

Thierry Henry, including the UEFA, Belgium and several football figures questioned FIFA's late decision to suspend USA's Folarin Balogun's World Cup ban.

Sports Ministry Directs Hockey India To Probe Harassment Allegations

Sports Ministry Directs Hockey India To Probe Harassment Allegations

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Sports Ministry has directed Hockey India to investigate allegations of intimidation and sexual harassment made by former India captain Asunta Lakra. Lakra accused HI general secretary Bhola Nath Singh and highlighted institutional protection for alleged misconduct, urging an independent inquiry and stronger safeguards for women athletes.

Andaz Apna Apna To Ghayal: Rajkumar Santoshi's Top 10 Films

Andaz Apna Apna To Ghayal: Rajkumar Santoshi's Top 10 Films

Rediff.com11 Aug 2026

Rajkumar Santoshi's best films prove that few Bollywood filmmakers could mix hard-hitting drama, action, comedy and sheer masala madness quite like him.

Why is Bhutia angry over India's Brazil match?

Why is Bhutia angry over India's Brazil match?

Rediff.com6 Aug 2026

The All India Football Federation's decision to field two separate teams for the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup and an international friendly against Brazil has sparked controversy.

'No reason' Virat, Rohit should miss 2027 World Cup

'No reason' Virat, Rohit should miss 2027 World Cup

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Former Pakistan captain Zaheer Abbas has expressed strong belief in Indian batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, stating they still have significant contributions to make and should feature in upcoming ODI World Cups. He emphasised their skill, experience, and fitness as key factors, dismissing age as a barrier. Abbas also touched upon the importance of traditional batting techniques and offered thoughts on Pakistan cricket.

Pujara Tells Retiring Rahane: 'It has been an honour sharing the dressing room with you'

Pujara Tells Retiring Rahane: 'It has been an honour sharing the dressing room with you'

Rediff.com30 Jul 2026

Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara and Olympic medallist PV Sindhu congratulated Ajinkya Rahane after the veteran batter announced his retirement from international cricket.

Sports Ministry Orders Probe Into Hockey India Harassment Allegations

Sports Ministry Orders Probe Into Hockey India Harassment Allegations

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

The Sports Ministry has directed Hockey India to investigate allegations of intimidation and sexual harassment raised by former India captain Asunta Lakra. Lakra accused Hockey India general secretary Bhola Nath Singh of intimidation and institutional protection of misconduct, urging an independent inquiry to safeguard women athletes.

How Cancer-Stricken Dad's Note Spurred Saransh Jain

How Cancer-Stricken Dad's Note Spurred Saransh Jain

Rediff.com28 Jul 2026

Saransh Jain's domestic success motivated by his cancer-affected dad's inspiring note. Saransh received his India Test call-up for the Sri Lanka tour on Tuesday.

Sports Ministry Orders Probe Into Hockey India Harassment Allegations

Sports Ministry Orders Probe Into Hockey India Harassment Allegations

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

The Sports Ministry has directed Hockey India to investigate allegations of intimidation and sexual harassment raised by former India captain Asunta Lakra. Lakra accused Hockey India general secretary Bhola Nath Singh of intimidation and institutional protection of misconduct, urging an independent inquiry to safeguard women athletes.

Babar reveals what went wrong for Pakistan vs West Indies

Babar reveals what went wrong for Pakistan vs West Indies

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Pakistan captain Babar Azam confirmed that Shan Masood fractured his finger during the first ICC World Test Championship match against the West Indies, contributing to Pakistan's 90-run defeat. The injury forced Masood to bat at No. 8, and Babar highlighted the team's top-order batting failures and lack of partnerships. West Indies' Justin Greaves was named Player of the Match for his five-wicket haul.

Laxman Praises Shreyas Iyer's Leadership After T20I Series Win

Laxman Praises Shreyas Iyer's Leadership After T20I Series Win

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Indian stand-in coach VVS Laxman has lauded T20I skipper Shreyas Iyer for securing his first-ever T20I series win as captain in Zimbabwe, praising his optimism and the team's 'collective effort' and 'winners' mindset' following a 3-0 clean sweep.

Lleyton Hewitt's son Cruz makes mark with maiden ATP Tour victory

Lleyton Hewitt's son Cruz makes mark with maiden ATP Tour victory

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Cruz Hewitt, son of former world number one Lleyton Hewitt, earned his first ATP Tour-level win at the Washington Open at the age of 17, defeating Marcos Giron.

From arthritis to Commonwealth Games bronze: Seema Kaliramna's incredible journey

From arthritis to Commonwealth Games bronze: Seema Kaliramna's incredible journey

Rediff.com31 Jul 2026

Indian discus thrower Seema Kaliramna secured a Commonwealth Games bronze medal after an arduous comeback journey. Post-childbirth, she battled severe arthritis, which threatened her career, but with her husband's support and a rigorous recovery, she returned to achieve a personal best and a podium finish.

Ruturaj Gaikwad named West Zone captain for Duleep Trophy

Ruturaj Gaikwad named West Zone captain for Duleep Trophy

Rediff.com21 Jul 2026

Ruturaj Gaikwad has been appointed captain of West Zone for the upcoming 2026-27 Duleep Trophy, with Shams Mulani named vice-captain, as the team prepares for the season-opening domestic competition.

Spain's Tactical Brilliance Sets Up FIFA World Cup Final

Spain's Tactical Brilliance Sets Up FIFA World Cup Final

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Former India internationals analyse Spain's dominant performance in the FIFA World Cup, highlighting their tactical discipline and defensive solidity. They also offer divided opinions on the highly anticipated semi-final clash between England and Argentina, discussing key players like Lionel Messi, Jude Bellingham, and Harry Kane, and the tactical approaches both teams might employ.

Manolo Marquez: World Cup expansion dilutes quality, India needs grassroots focus

Manolo Marquez: World Cup expansion dilutes quality, India needs grassroots focus

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

Spanish football coach Manolo Marquez has criticised the expansion of the FIFA World Cup, arguing it compromises quality and that countries like India should prioritise grassroots development over relying on increased qualification slots. He also highlighted the impact of naturalised players on international competition, citing his experience with the Indian team.

Andrea Pirlo's Italy coach bid ends amid Russian betting company controversy

Andrea Pirlo's Italy coach bid ends amid Russian betting company controversy

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Former Italy international Andrea Pirlo has withdrawn from contention for the national team's head coach position after his commercial ties to Russian betting company Fonbet drew significant criticism and opposition from Italian football officials and lawmakers.

Sunil Chhetri Becomes Most Capped ISL Player

Sunil Chhetri Becomes Most Capped ISL Player

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Sunil Chhetri became the most capped player in Indian Super League history as Bengaluru FC beat Jamshedpur FC 1-0. Ryan Williams scored the decisive goal in the first half.

'Bowlers will expose him': Yuvraj's warning to Sooryavanshi

'Bowlers will expose him': Yuvraj's warning to Sooryavanshi

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Yuvraj Singh has praised teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's talent but highlighted his weakness against the moving ball, urging him to improve this aspect. Former coach Ravi Shastri also lauded Sooryavanshi's fearless approach and potential as a game-changer for India.

'Aquib Nabi deserved a chance,' says former India star

'Aquib Nabi deserved a chance,' says former India star

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina believes Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi should have been selected for the Test match against Afghanistan, highlighting his significant contribution to their Ranji Trophy victory.

Ramiz Raja criticises PCB's decision to remove Shan Masood as Test captain

Ramiz Raja criticises PCB's decision to remove Shan Masood as Test captain

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Former Pakistan captain and PCB chairman Ramiz Raja has strongly criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board's decision to remove Shan Masood as Test captain.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: Confidence Key After Record-Breaking T20I Fifty

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: Confidence Key After Record-Breaking T20I Fifty

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

India's teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, at 15 years and 118 days, became the youngest player to score a fifty in men's international cricket, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's long-standing record.

Rural Sports Festival Isha Gramotsavam Reaches North India

Rural Sports Festival Isha Gramotsavam Reaches North India

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Sadhguru's Isha Gramotsavam, a rural sports festival, is expanding its 18th edition into North India, covering 10 states and one Union Territory. This year's event will engage over 80,000 players from 40,000 villages in men's volleyball and women's throwball, offering a prize pool exceeding Rs 1 crore, with the aim of social transformation through sport.

'I was told I only want IPL': Shashank

'I was told I only want IPL': Shashank

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

Punjab Kings all-rounder Shashank Singh is set to play for Pondicherry in the 2026-27 domestic season after securing an NOC from the Chhattisgarh State Cricket Sangh. Singh alleges a lack of support from Chhattisgarh during his injury recovery and claims he was unfairly excluded from state tournaments and camps, despite being a top domestic performer. He plans to focus on white-ball cricket moving forward.

Vishy Anand Changes His Mind, Will Contest FIDE Poll

Vishy Anand Changes His Mind, Will Contest FIDE Poll

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

Former World Champion Viswanathan Anand has reversed his earlier decision not to seek another term and will contest the election for the FIDE Deputy President's post.

'No one can abdicate responsibility': Saba Karim on India's T20I collapse

'No one can abdicate responsibility': Saba Karim on India's T20I collapse

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Former national selector Saba Karim has called on the BCCI to thoroughly examine the Indian team management's role, including Head Coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shreyas Iyer, following the back-to-back T20I series defeats against Ireland and England.

Why Joe Root accepted England Test captaincy for 2nd stint

Why Joe Root accepted England Test captaincy for 2nd stint

Rediff.com2 Aug 2026

Joe Root has returned as England's Test captain, succeeding Ben Stokes, and cited Stephen Fleming's appointment as the new Test coach as a significant factor in his decision. Root expressed excitement about Fleming's vision for the team and their shared goal of building something special.

Why Sports Ministry Ordered IOA Probe Into Hockey Sexual Harassment Claims

Why Sports Ministry Ordered IOA Probe Into Hockey Sexual Harassment Claims

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

The Sports Ministry has directed the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to form an independent inquiry panel to investigate sexual harassment allegations made by former hockey player Asunta Lakra. This decision came after Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey expressed concerns about the impartiality of an internal probe, as the allegations involve HI office bearers.

Prannoy, Unnati Lead Indian Challenge At Taipei Open

Prannoy, Unnati Lead Indian Challenge At Taipei Open

Rediff.com27 Jul 2026

Seasoned shuttler HS Prannoy and rising star Unnati Hooda will lead the Indian contingent at the Taipei Open Super 300 badminton tournament. Both players are looking for consistent performances, with Prannoy facing Japan's Minoru Koga and Unnati taking on a qualifier. Several other Indian players, including Tharun Mannepalli, M Manjunath, S Dayanand, Kiran George, Devika Sihag, Tasnim Mir, and others in doubles, are also set to compete.

Shastri says Rohit gave critics a 'tight slap with the bat'

Shastri says Rohit gave critics a 'tight slap with the bat'

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Rohit Sharma's century at Lord's not only secured a victory for India but also effectively ended speculation about his ODI future.