News for 'opening matches'

Can Gukesh Bounce Back At Norway Chess?

Can Gukesh Bounce Back At Norway Chess?

Rediff.com29 May 2026

D Gukesh aims to recover at Norway Chess after a difficult start, while R Praggnanandhaa enjoys a strong position. Gukesh's performance against Praggnanandhaa in round five will be crucial for his title aspirations.

Phil Salt Set To Rejoin RCB After Finger Injury

Phil Salt Set To Rejoin RCB After Finger Injury

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Royal Challengers Bengaluru opening batter Phil Salt is expected to return to India later this week after recovering from a finger injury that sidelined him for a month during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season.

Historic! Bangladesh stun Pakistan for 1st home Test win

Historic! Bangladesh stun Pakistan for 1st home Test win

Rediff.com12 May 2026

Bangladesh secured a historic first-ever home Test victory against Pakistan in Dhaka, marking a significant milestone in their cricket journey.

Shubman Gill fires warning to RCB before IPL 2026 final

Shubman Gill fires warning to RCB before IPL 2026 final

Rediff.com30 May 2026

Shubman Gill discusses Gujarat Titans' strategy for the IPL final, emphasising the importance of home advantage and mental fortitude.

Abhay Singh Narrowly Defeated by Youssef Ibrahim in El Gouna Open Squash

Abhay Singh Narrowly Defeated by Youssef Ibrahim in El Gouna Open Squash

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

Indian squash player Abhay Singh lost a close five-game match to Egypt's Youssef Ibrahim in the second round of the El Gouna Open, a PSA Platinum event.

Padikkal Or Sudharsan? Who Will Bat At No. 3?

Padikkal Or Sudharsan? Who Will Bat At No. 3?

Rediff.com5 Jun 2026

India are entering a rebuilding phase in Test cricket, with Shubman Gill facing early challenges as captain amid concerns over form, selection stability, and recent home results.

'You'd go a long way to see a better captain's knock than Shreyas Iyer's'

'You'd go a long way to see a better captain's knock than Shreyas Iyer's'

Rediff.com24 May 2026

Shreyas Iyer's unbeaten century helped Punjab Kings beat Lucknow Super Giants and keep their hopes of reaching the IPL playoffs alive, according to assistant coach Brad Haddin.

IPL 2026 Eliminator: Sooryavanshi Has Gayle's Sixes Record In His Sight!

IPL 2026 Eliminator: Sooryavanshi Has Gayle's Sixes Record In His Sight!

Rediff.com27 May 2026

Rajasthan Royals' Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is close to breaking Chris Gayle's record for most sixes in an IPL season.

'Captain's dream': Cummins hails Malinga, Hussain after SRH whip RCB

'Captain's dream': Cummins hails Malinga, Hussain after SRH whip RCB

Rediff.com23 May 2026

Pat Cummins praised fast bowlers Eshan Malinga and Sakib Hussain after Sunrisers Hyderabad's win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League.

Why India Are T20 World Cup Favourites, According To Chopra

Why India Are T20 World Cup Favourites, According To Chopra

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Former India captain Anjum Chopra believes the Indian women's cricket team are favourites for the upcoming T20 World Cup, highlighting their familiarity with English conditions and the return of key players.

Deepak Punia Wins Asian Games Trial After Weight Category Shift

Deepak Punia Wins Asian Games Trial After Weight Category Shift

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Former World Championships silver medallist Deepak Punia secured his place in the Indian team for the Asian Games after winning the 97kg freestyle competition at the selection trials. Other winners included Aman Sehrawat and Sujeet Kalkal.

The Challenge To Win Makes Kohli Ruthless

The Challenge To Win Makes Kohli Ruthless

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Sometimes, it feels as if Kohli needs purpose-built pressure to produce a great knock. This was a final, and that pressure acted like fuel for him.

IPL 2026: 7 Facts About Narendra Modi Stadium

IPL 2026: 7 Facts About Narendra Modi Stadium

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Record-breaking crowds and unforgettable finals have made sure the Narendra Modi stadium has become one of the grandest stages in Indian Premier League history.

India Sweeps Australia To Reach Thomas Cup Quarters

India Sweeps Australia To Reach Thomas Cup Quarters

Rediff.com27 Apr 2026

India secured a dominant 5-0 victory over Australia in their Group A tie at the Thomas Cup Finals, earning them a place in the quarterfinals.

Srikkanth urges RCB to drop this player for IPL 2026 final

Srikkanth urges RCB to drop this player for IPL 2026 final

Rediff.com31 May 2026

Former India captain Kris Srikkanth advises Royal Challengers Bengaluru to exclude Romario Shepherd from their playing XI for the IPL final against Gujarat Titans, citing concerns over his expensive bowling.

Comeback Queen: Why Serena Williams Is Returning To Tennis At 44

Comeback Queen: Why Serena Williams Is Returning To Tennis At 44

Rediff.com2 Jun 2026

Serena Williams is set to make a comeback to competitive tennis after a nearly four-year absence, receiving a wildcard entry into the Queen's Club Championships doubles draw.

'Throw age out the window': Rabada on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

'Throw age out the window': Rabada on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Rediff.com30 May 2026

Gujarat Titans defeated Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 2 to secure a spot in the IPL final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Key performances from Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and a strong partnership between Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill led GT to victory.

Why KKR's IPL 2026 Campaign Crashed

Why KKR's IPL 2026 Campaign Crashed

Rediff.com28 May 2026

KKR arrived in IPL 2026 with big signings and high expectations. But instead of another title push, the season unravelled into a frustrating mix of injuries and missed opportunities.

SAFF Women's C'ship: India edge Bhutan to set up title clash with Bangladesh

SAFF Women's C'ship: India edge Bhutan to set up title clash with Bangladesh

Rediff.com4 Jun 2026

Five-time champions India booked their place in the final of the SAFF Women's Championship with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over a resolute Bhutan in the second semifinal in Margao on Wednesday.

From first-ball six to IPL stardom: Sooryavanshi relives magical debut season

From first-ball six to IPL stardom: Sooryavanshi relives magical debut season

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Teen sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi opened up on his dream IPL journey with Rajasthan Royals, recalling his first-ball six, maiden century and the life lessons from his father that shaped his fearless approach.

Why France are favourites to win the World Cup

Why France are favourites to win the World Cup

Rediff.com8 Jun 2026

With Kylian Mbappe's depth and experience, economists predict France are tipped to edge Spain to lift World Cup.

Can Gukesh Bounce Back At Norway Chess?

Can Gukesh Bounce Back At Norway Chess?

Rediff.com29 May 2026

D Gukesh aims to rebound at Norway Chess after a challenging start, while R Praggnanandhaa enjoys a strong position. Gukesh's performance against Praggnanandhaa in round five will be crucial in determining his title contention.

Hazlewood opens up on 151-day injury nightmare

Hazlewood opens up on 151-day injury nightmare

Rediff.com17 Apr 2026

Royal Challengers Bengaluru's lead pacer Josh Hazlewood admitted that his delayed entry into IPL 2026 due to rehabilitation was tough, emphasising the need to respect recovery time at 35 after multiple injuries since November 2025.

Arjun Singh and Dhiren Patel secure gold medals at US Open Pickleball Championship

Arjun Singh and Dhiren Patel secure gold medals at US Open Pickleball Championship

Rediff.com13 Apr 2026

Arjun Singh and Dhiren Patel won gold medals in their respective singles events at the US Open Pickleball Championship in Naples, Florida, bringing India's total to three gold medals in the tournament.

Aryna Sabalenka wins Miami Open, completes 'Sunshine Double'

Aryna Sabalenka wins Miami Open, completes 'Sunshine Double'

Rediff.com29 Mar 2026

Aryna Sabalenka defeated Coco Gauff in the Miami Open final to complete the 'Sunshine Double', joining an elite group of female tennis players.

Kiran George upsets Loh Kean Yew; Tanvi, Unnati bow out of Swiss Open

Kiran George upsets Loh Kean Yew; Tanvi, Unnati bow out of Swiss Open

Rediff.com11 Mar 2026

Kiran George defeated Loh Kean Yew at the Swiss Open, while other Indian shuttlers experienced mixed fortunes in the tournament.

Axar Hails 'Youngster' Starc After DC Keep Playoff Hopes Alive

Axar Hails 'Youngster' Starc After DC Keep Playoff Hopes Alive

Rediff.com18 May 2026

Delhi Capitals defeated Rajasthan Royals in their IPL match, with Axar Patel praising the bowlers' performance. The win improves DC's playoff chances, while Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag criticised his team's performance.

IPL 2026: Chris Gayle calls Sooryavanshi a new six machine

IPL 2026: Chris Gayle calls Sooryavanshi "a new six machine"

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Chris Gayle praised Rajasthan Royals teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after the 15-year-old produced another breathtaking display in the IPL Eliminator against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

IPL 2026, Qualifier 1: Dharamsala holds the key to RCB vs GT showdown

IPL 2026, Qualifier 1: Dharamsala holds the key to RCB vs GT showdown

Rediff.com25 May 2026

The evidence from the three IPL matches played in Dharamsala this season suggests that it has evolved into a high-scoring venue where fast bowlers still remain relevant, a combination that could shape Tuesday's Qualifier 1 between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans.

Anil Kumble Praises Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's IPL Consistency

Anil Kumble Praises Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's IPL Consistency

Rediff.com29 May 2026

Anil Kumble has expressed his admiration for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's consistent power-hitting in the ongoing IPL season. Kumble highlighted Sooryavanshi's record-breaking sixes and overall performance, noting the pressure it places on his opening partner, Yashasvi Jaiswal.

K L Rahul's Blitz, Kuldeep's Magic Help Delhi Capitals Sink KKR

K L Rahul's Blitz, Kuldeep's Magic Help Delhi Capitals Sink KKR

Rediff.com25 May 2026

Kuldeep Yadav marked his return in stunning three-wicket haul to complement K L Rahul's blazing half-century at the top as Delhi Capitals outclassed a lacklustre Kolkata Knight Riders by 40 runs.

IPL 2026 Qualifier 2: Can Rabada, Siraj Stop Sooryavanshi's Rampage?

IPL 2026 Qualifier 2: Can Rabada, Siraj Stop Sooryavanshi's Rampage?

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Gujarat Titans face Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 2 of the Indian Premier League, with a focus on stopping Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and improving their batting and fielding.

IPL 2026: Big celebrations as RCB defend IPL title after Kohli masterclass

IPL 2026: Big celebrations as RCB defend IPL title after Kohli masterclass

Rediff.com1 Jun 2026

Royal Challengers Bengaluru put on a complete performance to beat Gujarat Titans by 5 wickets and defend their Indian Premier League title on Sunday.

Mamdani announces $50 FIFA World Cup tickets for New Yorkers

Mamdani announces $50 FIFA World Cup tickets for New Yorkers

Rediff.com22 May 2026

New York City will offer residents a chance to buy $50 World Cup tickets through a lottery system, including free transport to New Jersey matches, amid soaring tournament ticket prices.

IPL 2026: Gill-Sudharsan: The finest IPL batting pair in history?

IPL 2026: Gill-Sudharsan: The finest IPL batting pair in history?

Rediff.com25 May 2026

Former India cricketer Suresh Raina has rated Gujarat Titans openers Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan as the finest batting pair in the history of IPL and lauded the duo's "remarkable" consistency.

El Gouna Open: Abhay Singh Loses To Youssef Ibrahim In A Thriller

El Gouna Open: Abhay Singh Loses To Youssef Ibrahim In A Thriller

Rediff.com7 Apr 2026

India's Abhay Singh lost a thrilling five-game match to Egypt's Youssef Ibrahim in the second round of the El Gouna Open.

IPL 2026: Gujarat Titans eye top-two finish as CSK fight for survival

IPL 2026: Gujarat Titans eye top-two finish as CSK fight for survival

Rediff.com20 May 2026

Gujarat Titans, eyeing a top-two finish in the IPL, face Chennai Super Kings, who are struggling to stay in playoff contention. Shubman Gill's form and Rashid Khan's spin will be key for GT, while CSK need their top order to fire to overcome injuries and inconsistent bowling.

TMC vs TMC: Meeting records from Mamata's home surface online

TMC vs TMC: Meeting records from Mamata's home surface online

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

A fresh controversy has erupted within the Trinamool Congress (TMC) regarding the leadership of its legislature party, as documents purportedly from two MLA meetings on May 6 and May 19 have surfaced on social media. Rebel Leader of Opposition Ritabrata Banerjee has questioned the authenticity of these documents, which list MLAs' attendance and support for the election of the leader of the opposition, amidst ongoing allegations of signature forgery.

Ashmita Chaliha Advances To Malaysia Masters Main Draw

Ashmita Chaliha Advances To Malaysia Masters Main Draw

Rediff.com19 May 2026

Indian shuttler Ashmita Chaliha qualified for the women's singles main draw of the Malaysia Masters Super 500 tournament after defeating Pai Yu-po. In men's doubles, Hariharan Amsakarunan and M R Arjun progressed to the second round.

Unstoppable Sinner breaks Djokovic's record to storm into Rome semis

Unstoppable Sinner breaks Djokovic's record to storm into Rome semis

Rediff.com14 May 2026

Jannik Sinner surpasses Novak Djokovic's record with his 32nd consecutive Masters 1000 victory, advancing to the Italian Open semi-finals after defeating Andrey Rublev.