News for 'former players'

FIFA's $20 Billion Subsidiary Plan for World Cup Draws UEFA's Fury

FIFA's $20 Billion Subsidiary Plan for World Cup Draws UEFA's Fury

Rediff.com29 Jul 2026

FIFA plans to create a $20 billion subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), to manage the World Cup and other events, offering up to 20% stakes to external investors, a move that has drawn fierce criticism from UEFA, who accused the governing body of putting the game's 'soul' up for sale.

Scottish Open: Indian-Origin Golfers Face Setback In Final Round

Scottish Open: Indian-Origin Golfers Face Setback In Final Round

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Indian-origin golfers Sahith Theegala and Sudarshan Yellamaraju experienced a disappointing final round at the Scottish Open, slipping down the leaderboard. South Korea's Tom Kim secured the title with a flawless performance, while Theegala and Yellamaraju finished tied for 66th and 52nd respectively.

IPL to Tests: Stokes defends Archer's workload management

IPL to Tests: Stokes defends Archer's workload management

Rediff.com3 Jun 2026

Ben Stokes defended England's decision to rest Jofra Archer for the opening Test against New Zealand at Lord's after the fast bowler's Indian Premier League stint, with the captain warning that mishandling such situations could drive players away from international cricket.

Nightclub row: Graeme Swann slams ECB, says board focused on policing, not celebrating

Nightclub row: Graeme Swann slams ECB, says board focused on policing, not celebrating

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

Former England spinner Graeme Swann has questioned ECB's imposition of midnight curfew on players, and termed Ben Stokes a victim of the culture more interested in policing than celebrating an achievement.

Beyond Harman: Mithali backs Smriti for ODI captaincy, Shafali for T20

Beyond Harman: Mithali backs Smriti for ODI captaincy, Shafali for T20

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Smriti Mandhana is more suited to lead India in the longer formats after Harmanpreet Kaur's tenure ends while the much younger Shafali Varma can be handed the reins of the T20 side following another pre-mature exit from the World Cup, former captain legendary Mithali Raj said.

Thierry Henry: Messi 'Not Human' in World Cup Comeback; Beckham, Rivaldo Also Praise Star

Thierry Henry: Messi 'Not Human' in World Cup Comeback; Beckham, Rivaldo Also Praise Star

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Football legends Thierry Henry, David Beckham, and Rivaldo have lauded Lionel Messi's extraordinary performance in Argentina's dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 comeback against Egypt, with Henry stating Messi is 'not human' for his ability to elevate his game when it matters most.

Hollywood Superstar Tom Cruise arrives for FIFA World Cup final

Hollywood Superstar Tom Cruise arrives for FIFA World Cup final

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup final sees Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, take on a strong Spanish unit featuring teenage star Lamine Yamal, with Messi aiming for back-to-back titles at a venue holding past painful memories.

Wimbledon: Dmitrov overcomes fear and injury to stun young Mensik

Wimbledon: Dmitrov overcomes fear and injury to stun young Mensik

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

Grigor Dimitrov, the veteran Bulgarian stylist, defeated rising Czech star Jacub Mensik at Wimbledon, overcoming past injury fears. Dimitrov, who had suffered multiple Grand Slam withdrawals due to injury, showcased a masterclass performance, drawing inspiration from Roger Federer's style, to advance to the third round. He expressed his determination to push limits and compete at the highest level despite his history of injuries.

Former World No. 3 Tsitsipas' free fall continues with Munich exit

Former World No. 3 Tsitsipas' free fall continues with Munich exit

Rediff.com16 Apr 2026

Stefanos Tsitsipas' struggles continue with a first-round exit in Munich, as injuries and inconsistent form see his ranking drop to its lowest in eight years.

'Recipe For Disaster': Pakistan hockey players shocked as PHF names new coach

'Recipe For Disaster': Pakistan hockey players shocked as PHF names new coach

Rediff.com8 Apr 2026

The Pakistan Hockey Federation has replaced head coach Colin Batch with Manzoor ul Hasan, a move that has surprised players ahead of the FIH Pro Nations League and the World Cup.

Infantino's FIFA future in jeopardy after World Cup stake sale gamble backfires

Infantino's FIFA future in jeopardy after World Cup stake sale gamble backfires

Rediff.com1 Aug 2026

FIFA President Gianni Infantino's ambitious plan to sell a 20% stake in a commercial entity managing the World Cup and other tournaments to private investors has been abandoned following widespread opposition, including a boycott threat from UEFA.

BCCI to hold review meeting after India's dismal T20 series against England, Ireland

BCCI to hold review meeting after India's dismal T20 series against England, Ireland

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

The BCCI will conduct a review meeting after India's T20 series against England concludes on July 19, following poor performances against both England and Ireland, but has stated it will not make any 'knee-jerk' decisions regarding head coach Gautam Gambhir's future.

How Karachi's Football Fans Celebrate The FIFA World Cup

How Karachi's Football Fans Celebrate The FIFA World Cup

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

Despite Pakistan not qualifying for the FIFA World Cup, Karachi is buzzing with excitement as the global event begins. "WC Football" villages have been set up in areas like Malir and Lyari, known for their love of the sport, featuring large screens, decorations, and enthusiastic fans. The city's passion for football is evident, with local clubs and administration organising events for youngsters, highlighting the sport's growing influence beyond cricket.

Would you say that to men? Sana Mir blasts sexist criticism of Pakistan women's team

"Would you say that to men?" Sana Mir blasts sexist criticism of Pakistan women's team

Rediff.com27 Jun 2026

Former Pakistan captain Sana Mir has criticised fans and critics for applying a 'sexist' tone to the national women's team's performance in the T20 World Cup. Mir highlighted the double standards in how men's and women's teams are judged, urging a change in mindset and more respect for female athletes.

FIFA World Cup: 'We Become Friends Again': Mbappe's Emotional Hakimi Message

FIFA World Cup: 'We Become Friends Again': Mbappe's Emotional Hakimi Message

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

After France's 2-0 victory over Morocco in the FIFA World Cup quarterfinal, Kylian Mbappe was seen consoling his close friend Achraf Hakimi. This moment of mutual respect between the former Paris Saint-Germain teammates quickly went viral, highlighting that fierce rivals can still share genuine friendship off the pitch, despite Mbappe's insistence on no emotions during the game.

Morkel backs struggling Samson, in-form Abhishek despite Sooryavanshi buzz

Morkel backs struggling Samson, in-form Abhishek despite Sooryavanshi buzz

Rediff.com3 Jul 2026

India's bowling coach Morne Morkel has indicated that the team management will continue to back openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma, despite the impressive performance of teen sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Morkel stressed the importance of showing faith in established players who have performed well previously, while also acknowledging the excitement around new talents like Sooryavanshi and pacer Prince Yadav.

Indian-Origin Bodhana Sivanandan Is UK's No. 1 Women's Chess Player

Indian-Origin Bodhana Sivanandan Is UK's No. 1 Women's Chess Player

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

At just 11 years old, Bodhana Sivanandan has become Great Britain's No 1 Women's Chess player dethroning four-time British Women's Champion Lan Yao.

Manpreet Singh Targets World Cup Medal, Los Angeles Olympics 2028

Manpreet Singh Targets World Cup Medal, Los Angeles Olympics 2028

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

Veteran Indian hockey midfielder Manpreet Singh, despite numerous accolades including Olympic medals, is determined to win a World Cup medal before concluding his illustrious career after the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

A genius, a trend setter: Cricket fraternity mourns death of Sir Garfield Sobers

A genius, a trend setter: Cricket fraternity mourns death of Sir Garfield Sobers

Rediff.com17 Jul 2026

The cricket world paid glorious tribute to West Indies legend Sir Garfield Sobers who died in Barbados on Friday, describing him as the benchmark of excellence and terming his death an "irreplaceable loss" for the sport.

How Lenient Refereeing Is Driving World Cup's High-Intensity Play

How Lenient Refereeing Is Driving World Cup's High-Intensity Play

Rediff.com29 Jun 2026

The World Cup has seen a shift to a more lenient refereeing style, prioritising game flow and reducing stoppages. This, combined with stronger, faster players, has led to a quicker, more physically demanding tournament with higher scoring. While welcomed, experts warn that this intensity tests players' physical limits, increasing injury risks, especially for those not fully fit.

'Tilak Varma is clueless': Srikkanth backs Samson over him

'Tilak Varma is clueless': Srikkanth backs Samson over him

Rediff.com9 Jul 2026

India's T20I team is facing significant challenges under its new leadership, with captain Shreyas Iyer and vice-captain Tilak Varma under scrutiny after consecutive series losses in the UK. The team's poor performance, especially after a recent T20 World Cup win, has led to questions about player selections and management decisions, particularly concerning Tilak Varma's form and role.

Ganguly, Anjum Chopra, Pietersen inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

Ganguly, Anjum Chopra, Pietersen inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Former Indian captains Sourav Ganguly and Anjum Chopra, along with ex-England skipper Kevin Pietersen, have been inducted into the International Cricket Council's prestigious Hall of Fame during a ceremony in Edinburgh, recognising their significant contributions to the sport.

'My Job Is With The Bat': Rohit Shuts Down Retirement Talk

'My Job Is With The Bat': Rohit Shuts Down Retirement Talk

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

Rohit Sharma answered the retirement rumours in the best possible way - by smashing a record-breaking century at Lord's.

Ignored by India, Kuldeep gets big County deal

Ignored by India, Kuldeep gets big County deal

Rediff.com22 Jul 2026

Indian left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav has signed an eight-game deal with Yorkshire for the ongoing English county season, participating in both the Metro Bank One Day Cup and the Rothesay County Championship. Concurrently, uncapped Indian all-rounder Ashutosh Sharma made an impressive debut for Hampshire, taking three wickets in a one-day match against Yorkshire.

Giorgia Meloni, Carlos Alcaraz congratulate Jannik Sinner on retaining Wimbledon crown

Giorgia Meloni, Carlos Alcaraz congratulate Jannik Sinner on retaining Wimbledon crown

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and rival Carlos Alcaraz led congratulations for Jannik Sinner after he successfully defended his Wimbledon men's singles title, a victory that also significantly widened his lead over Alcaraz in the 'Big Titles' race.

Matthew Hayden: ETPL's future lies in developing Europe's next cricket stars

Matthew Hayden: ETPL's future lies in developing Europe's next cricket stars

Rediff.com4 Jul 2026

Matthew Hayden says the European T20 Premier League can establish itself as a talent-development platform for Europe's associate nations, stressing that ETPL's strength lies in creating pathways to global franchise cricket rather than competing with the IPL.

'Rohit good enough to play for couple of years'

'Rohit good enough to play for couple of years'

Rediff.com19 Jul 2026

Lalchand Rajput, Rohit Sharma's early mentor, believes the former India captain is 'good enough to play for a couple of years', attributing his current struggles to natural 'wear and tear'.

Why FIFA's New VAR Protocol Is Under Fire After Argentina's World Cup Run

Why FIFA's New VAR Protocol Is Under Fire After Argentina's World Cup Run

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

A former FIFA referee has questioned the new VAR protocol after fresh controversy involving Argentina, warning that fan confidence in World Cup officiating has been "completely eroded."

Mirabai reveals why she's holding back at CWG

Mirabai reveals why she's holding back at CWG

Rediff.com23 Jul 2026

Weightlifter Mirabai Chanu will not attempt the coveted 90kg snatch at the Commonwealth Games, instead prioritising the upcoming Asian Games where she aims to secure her first medal in the competition.

Why July 13 is special for Indian cricket

Why July 13 is special for Indian cricket

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

Former India Women's cricketer Reema Malhotra has hailed the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side's historic Test victory over England at Lord's, drawing parallels between their win and Sourav Ganguly's iconic balcony celebration in 2002, stating, 'July 13 has become a memorable date in Indian cricket history.'

Pujara, Nayar pinpoint reasons for India's T20I series defeat in England

Pujara, Nayar pinpoint reasons for India's T20I series defeat in England

Rediff.com12 Jul 2026

Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara and ex-assistant coach Abhishek Nayar have offered critical insights into India's recent T20I series defeat against England, highlighting issues with middle-order depth, all-rounders, poor fielding, and struggles against short balls.

Vani Kapoor Claims Ninth Leg Of Hero Women's Pro Golf Tour

Vani Kapoor Claims Ninth Leg Of Hero Women's Pro Golf Tour

Rediff.com10 Jul 2026

Vani Kapoor secured a comfortable victory in the ninth leg of the Hero Women's Pro Golf Tour at Clover Greens, Hosur. Her impressive performance, including five birdies in the final 10 holes, led her to finish 11-under, three shots ahead of Anvvi Dahhiya. This marks Kapoor's first win of 2026, following a successful 2025 season.

How Cricket Coaching Can Be Reshaped Through AI

How Cricket Coaching Can Be Reshaped Through AI

Rediff.com26 Jun 2026

Advanced Impactor. an AI-powered platform, aims to modernise cricket coaching with real-time performance analytics.

How India Bowling Coach Joshi Helped Bishnoi Bounce Back To Form

How India Bowling Coach Joshi Helped Bishnoi Bounce Back To Form

Rediff.com24 Jul 2026

India bowling coach Sunil Joshi revealed that a minor adjustment in leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi's run-up was crucial in helping him regain his rhythm against Zimbabwe, following a challenging performance against England.

I feel sad for Imran Khan, he should get the right treatment: Kapil Dev

I feel sad for Imran Khan, he should get the right treatment: Kapil Dev

Rediff.com5 Jul 2026

Kapil Dev expressed deep sadness for his former rival cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan, who continues to be lodged at Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail amid concerns over his deteriorating health.

Wimbledon 2026: Gauff downs Pegula, sets up semifinal clash with Muchova

Wimbledon 2026: Gauff downs Pegula, sets up semifinal clash with Muchova

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Coco Gauff fought back from a set down to reach the Wimbledon semifinals for the first time after beating friend and former doubles partner Jessica Pegula 4-6, 6-3, 6-3 in an all-American Centre Court clash on Tuesday.

Argentina's World Cup Resilience Tested Ahead of Switzerland Clash

Argentina's World Cup Resilience Tested Ahead of Switzerland Clash

Rediff.com8 Jul 2026

Defending champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, have shown remarkable resilience in the World Cup knockout stages, overcoming a 2-0 deficit against Egypt and needing extra time against Cape Verde to reach the quarter-finals against Switzerland.

Messi, Bellingham and history collide in Argentina-England semi-final

Messi, Bellingham and history collide in Argentina-England semi-final

Rediff.com14 Jul 2026

Lionel Messi's Argentina take on Jude Bellingham's England in a blockbuster FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final, reviving one of football's greatest rivalries with a place in the final on the line.

After Deschamps, Can Zidane Unlock France's Golden Generation?

After Deschamps, Can Zidane Unlock France's Golden Generation?

Rediff.com15 Jul 2026

France's World Cup semi-final defeat to Spain marks the end of Didier Deschamps' 14-year reign, with Zinedine Zidane widely expected to take over and lead a new generation of gifted players towards future global titles.

President Murmu Highlights Durand Cup's Role In Nurturing Indian Football Talent

President Murmu Highlights Durand Cup's Role In Nurturing Indian Football Talent

Rediff.com7 Jul 2026

President Droupadi Murmu unveiled the Durand Cup 2026 trophy, marking the start of preparations for Asia's oldest football tournament. She highlighted the tournament's role in nurturing talent, promoting sportsmanship, and connecting people, while also drawing parallels to India's vision of becoming a developed nation.