News for 'former players'

Devika Sihag, Rounak Chouhan, Kidambi Srikanth Reach US Open Semifinals

Devika Sihag, Rounak Chouhan, Kidambi Srikanth Reach US Open Semifinals

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Indian badminton players Devika Sihag, Rounak Chouhan, and Kidambi Srikanth have advanced to the semifinals of the US Open badminton tournament in Fullerton, USA. Sihag caused an upset by defeating third seed Riko Gunji, while Chouhan continued his strong performance. Srikanth's win sets up the possibility of an all-Indian final.

Irfan Pathan Explains India's World Cup Squad Strategy

Irfan Pathan Explains India's World Cup Squad Strategy

Rediff.com12 Jun 2026

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan discusses India's ODI series against Afghanistan as a crucial opportunity to assess squad depth for the upcoming ICC World Cup, highlighting key players and their roles, especially for South African conditions.

Manika Batra Alleges TTFI Violated Constitution In Asian Games Squad Selection

Manika Batra Alleges TTFI Violated Constitution In Asian Games Squad Selection

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Star Indian table tennis player Manika Batra has accused the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) of violating its own Constitution during the selection of the Asian Games squad, where she was named a reserve. Batra claims a nine-member committee, exceeding the constitutional limit, finalised the team, leading to her "mental exhaustion" from the ongoing fight.

'They showed who is the boss'

'They showed who is the boss'

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

Zlatan Ibrahimovic praises Mexico after Ecuador victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 match on Tuesday.

Yuvraj Singh Named Delhi Capitals' Batting Coach

Yuvraj Singh Named Delhi Capitals' Batting Coach

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh is slated to become the batting coach for Delhi Capitals for the 2027 IPL season. This marks his first coaching assignment in the league, joining a revamped support staff under Sourav Ganguly, who will serve as Director of Cricket.

Dawood Ahmadzai's Journey: From Refugee Struggles to France's T20I Trailblazer

Dawood Ahmadzai's Journey: From Refugee Struggles to France's T20I Trailblazer

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Former Afghanistan U-19 cricketer Dawood Ahmadzai overcame hardship, exile and years of struggle to become France's leading T20I wicket-taker, with his sights now set on helping the country qualify for a historic Cricket World Cup.

MSK Prasad Questions Suryakumar Yadav's Omission From T20I Squad

MSK Prasad Questions Suryakumar Yadav's Omission From T20I Squad

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Former chief selector MSK Prasad has expressed bewilderment over Suryakumar Yadav's exclusion from India's T20I squad, suggesting it's a rest rather than a drop. He also questioned the omission of Rajat Patidar despite his strong IPL performance and the inclusion of Shivam Dube, while praising the selection of 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

FIFA World Cup: 'Team Must Score, Not You': Henry Blasts Ronaldo

FIFA World Cup: 'Team Must Score, Not You': Henry Blasts Ronaldo

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo had a quiet start to the FIFA World Cup 2026 as Portugal were held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their opening Group K match.

Serena's return puts familiar force at centre of Wimbledon

Serena's return puts familiar force at centre of Wimbledon

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

The 23-time Grand Slam champion has become the undisputed headline act at a tournament at which she has won seven singles titles and six doubles crowns with sister Venus.

Pakistan Hockey Federation To Revamp Structure After FIH Pro League Debacle

Pakistan Hockey Federation To Revamp Structure After FIH Pro League Debacle

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) is undertaking a significant restructuring of its national hockey programme following a dismal performance in the FIH Pro League, where the team failed to win any matches, including two losses to India. The PHF plans to hire foreign coaches and trainers from countries like Australia, Netherlands, or Germany to develop players at all levels and modernise the sport in Pakistan.

Manpreet joins elite club but India suffer setback

Manpreet joins elite club but India suffer setback

Rediff.com14 Jun 2026

Veteran midfielder Manpreet Singh equalled former skipper Dilip Tirkey's record of 412 international appearances for India, but the Indian hockey team lost 2-3 to the Netherlands in the FIH Men's Pro League. Hockey India officials congratulated Manpreet on his significant milestone.

Donation allegations 'baseless', will respond after SIT report: Champat Rai

Donation allegations 'baseless', will respond after SIT report: Champat Rai

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

A day after his resignation was accepted by the Ram temple trust, its former general secretary Champat Rai on Tuesday said he would respond to all allegations of donation embezzlement after the SIT submits its final report, even as opposition parties alleged a "cover-up" and stepped up the demand for its dissolution.

What happened when Michael Clarke met Haryana CM?

What happened when Michael Clarke met Haryana CM?

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

Former Australian cricketer Michael Clarke met Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini to discuss enhancing cricket development, nurturing youth talent, and fostering greater sporting engagement between India and Australia. Clarke expressed interest in establishing a cricket academy and facilitating player exchanges, while CM Saini affirmed Haryana's commitment to strengthening its sports ecosystem.

Why Ishan Kishan Will Struggle To Break Into India's Test Team

Why Ishan Kishan Will Struggle To Break Into India's Test Team

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

Ishan Kishan has all the requisite skills to be a successful Test batter but unfortunately the Indian red ball squad doesn't have any place for him, former skipper and ex-selection committee chairman Krishnamachari Srikkanth said.

Pragg is more dangerous than Carlsen: Pravin Thipsay

Pragg is more dangerous than Carlsen: Pravin Thipsay

Rediff.com7 Jun 2026

On current form, Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa can be considered one of the most dangerous opponents in world chess, even more dangerous than world No. 1 Carlsen, says Pravind Thipsay.

Vishy Anand Won't Contest FIDE Deputy President Post

Vishy Anand Won't Contest FIDE Deputy President Post

Rediff.com30 Jun 2026

Viswanathan Anand will not seek re-election for a third term as Deputy President of FIDE.

Fit Hardik Pandya could be India's X-factor at 2027 World Cup: WV Raman

Fit Hardik Pandya could be India's X-factor at 2027 World Cup: WV Raman

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Former India coach WV Raman says a fully fit Hardik Pandya could provide India the edge at the 2027 ODI World Cup, highlighting his all-round value while urging the team management to use the next 12-15 months to experiment with combinations and define player roles.

India's First OptoSAR Mission Ends in Failure

India's First OptoSAR Mission Ends in Failure

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

While recovery efforts are ongoing, the likelihood of recovery currently appears low.

Kidambi Srikanth Goes Down Fighting In US Open Badminton Final

Kidambi Srikanth Goes Down Fighting In US Open Badminton Final

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

Kidambi Srikanth ended his impressive run with a runner-up finish at the US Open Super 300 badminton tournament after going down fighting in three games to Chinese Taipei's Su Li-yang.

Why IPL may begin two weeks earlier in 2027

Why IPL may begin two weeks earlier in 2027

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

The BCCI is considering advancing the Indian Premier League schedule to a March 10-May 15 window from next year to avoid extreme heat and pre-monsoon rains. This move aims to benefit players and fans, though the number of matches will remain at 74 due to international calendar constraints.

Would be a great honour to captain England in Tests if offered role: Harry Brook

Would be a great honour to captain England in Tests if offered role: Harry Brook

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

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Pakistan Women to go on the offensive at T20 World Cup, says coach Wahab Riaz

Pakistan Women to go on the offensive at T20 World Cup, says coach Wahab Riaz

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Pakistan women's team head coach Wahab Riaz has insisted that his side will not compromise on playing an attacking brand of cricket during the T20 World Cup in England, beginning on Friday.

When Was The Last Time Pakistan Beat India?

When Was The Last Time Pakistan Beat India?

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

India-Pakistan matches were never meant to be predictable -- it was meant to be unforgettable, notes K R Nayar.

'Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Reminds Me Of Gary Sobers!'

'Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Reminds Me Of Gary Sobers!'

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Former India and Irish cricketer M V Narasimha Rao said the young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi reminds him of the legendary Gary Sobers.

FIFA WC 2026: Algeria come from behind to edge Jordan 2-1

FIFA WC 2026: Algeria come from behind to edge Jordan 2-1

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Algeria rallied to eliminate debutants Jordan and keep their Round of 32 hopes alive at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Expanded World Cup boosts India's qualification hopes: Bhutia

Expanded World Cup boosts India's qualification hopes: Bhutia

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

Former India captain Bhaichung Bhutia says FIFA's expanded 48-team World Cup format significantly improves India's chances of qualification while creating new opportunities for emerging football nations across Asia and beyond.

T20 World Cup: We want to play aggressive brand of cricket vs Australia, says Smriti Mandhana

T20 World Cup: We want to play aggressive brand of cricket vs Australia, says Smriti Mandhana

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana on Saturday said India will play an "aggressive brand of cricket" against Australia in the must-win Women's T20 World Cup match in London.

President Murmu Confers 2nd Round of Padma Awards

President Murmu Confers 2nd Round of Padma Awards

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

President Droupadi Murmu presented the honours to eminent personalities and posthumous awardees for their exceptional contributions.

FIFA World Cup: 'Messi is above Pele, Maradona and Cruyff'

FIFA World Cup: 'Messi is above Pele, Maradona and Cruyff'

Rediff.com23 Jun 2026

Former football player Zlatan Ibrahimovic has lauded Lionel Messi for breaking the all-time FIFA World Cup goal record, stating that the Argentinian ace is in a 'category of his own', surpassing even legends like Pele, Diego Maradona, and Johan Cruyff due to his numbers, longevity, and trophies.

Pujara snubbed again! Former player slams decision

Pujara snubbed again! Former player slams decision

Rediff.com14 Feb 2024

Karsan Ghavri questions decision to ignore Pujara for England series

Visa Woes Hit Pakistan Hockey Team Ahead Of England Leg

Visa Woes Hit Pakistan Hockey Team Ahead Of England Leg

Rediff.com20 Jun 2026

Pakistan's national hockey team is facing significant challenges ahead of the final leg of the FIH Pro League in England, with captain Ammad Shakeel Butt's visa rejected and head coach Manzur-ul-Hasan also struggling to secure his travel documents. This comes amidst a dismal performance in the league and growing criticism over team management.

Manika Batra Demands Answers, Threatens Legal Action Over Asian Games Snub

Manika Batra Demands Answers, Threatens Legal Action Over Asian Games Snub

Rediff.com24 Jun 2026

Indian table tennis star Manika Batra has threatened legal action against the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) if she is not provided a 'factual explanation' for her omission from the Asian Games squad.

BCCI's Caring Gesture! Allows Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Parents To Join Him For Ireland-England Tour

BCCI's Caring Gesture! Allows Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Parents To Join Him For Ireland-England Tour

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

A 15-year-old schoolboy needs to be eased into a senior team set-up, said BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia as he explained the decision to allow Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's parents to accompany him on the white-ball tour of Ireland and England.

Brook open to taking over England Test captaincy

Brook open to taking over England Test captaincy

Rediff.com1 Jul 2026

England white-ball captain Harry Brook on Tuesday said it would be a "privilege" for him to lead the country in Test cricket if offered the job following Ben Stokes' retirement.

Most-capped hockey star Manpreet Singh hails Virat Kohli's role in his longevity

Most-capped hockey star Manpreet Singh hails Virat Kohli's role in his longevity

Rediff.com18 Jun 2026

India's most-capped hockey player Manpreet Singh idolises Virat Kohli and credits his longevity to fitness, saying he has drawn inspiration from the star cricketer's fitness regime.

Rafa Mir Convicted: Spanish Footballer Gets 8.5 Years For Sexual Assault

Rafa Mir Convicted: Spanish Footballer Gets 8.5 Years For Sexual Assault

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

Spanish footballer Rafa Mir has been sentenced to eight-and-a-half years in prison after being found guilty of sexual assault and assault causing injury by a court in Valencia. The verdict, which can be appealed, follows a complaint filed in September 2024 and highlights the sensitive issue of women's rights in Spanish sports.

Pakistan Super League grapples with player withdrawals amid IPL lure

Pakistan Super League grapples with player withdrawals amid IPL lure

Rediff.com23 Mar 2026

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) is facing logistical and contractual challenges as several overseas players withdraw to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL), which offers more lucrative contracts. The PCB is considering actions against players breaching contracts but fears deterring future talent.

Premier League 2026-27: Arsenal open title defence against returning Coventry

Premier League 2026-27: Arsenal open title defence against returning Coventry

Rediff.com19 Jun 2026

Premier League champions Arsenal will begin their title defence at home to newly promoted Coventry City when the 2026-27 season kicks off on August 21.

15 saves! Curacao Goalkeeper Eloy Room Makes FIFA World Cup History

15 saves! Curacao Goalkeeper Eloy Room Makes FIFA World Cup History

Rediff.com21 Jun 2026

Curacao goalkeeper Eloy Room made 15 saves in the 0-0 draw with Ecuador -- the most in a 90-minute match in the World Cup history.

FIFA World Cup: France's firepower puts Sweden in the firing line

FIFA World Cup: France's firepower puts Sweden in the firing line

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

France's formidable attack has propelled them through the World Cup group stage, but coach Didier Deschamps is focused on resolving issues on the team's left side before their Round of 32 match against Sweden.