News for 'player fitness'

Pakistan hit by fresh blow as Babar Azam battles fever amid major team shake-Up

Pakistan hit by fresh blow as Babar Azam battles fever amid major team shake-Up

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Babar Azam's fever adds to Pakistan's mounting troubles before the Edgbaston Test, with the PCB overhauling the squad and coaching staff after England secured an unassailable 2-0 lead.

'Every 2-3 games...': Gill explodes over injury crisis

'Every 2-3 games...': Gill explodes over injury crisis

Rediff.com20 Jul 2026

India's ODI captain Shubman Gill has voiced strong concerns over the recurring injury issues plaguing his bowlers, questioning their fitness commitment ahead of next year's World Cup. Following a 1-2 series loss to England, Gill highlighted that multiple key players were sidelined due to injuries, impacting team combinations and raising doubts about their ability to sustain performance through a long tournament.

Japan Captain Is Confident Of Tackling Sooryavanshi

Japan Captain Is Confident Of Tackling Sooryavanshi

Rediff.com5 days ago

Japan cricket team captain Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming expressed confidence in his team's ability to counter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, citing a previous dismissal by Japanese spinner Charlie Hara-Hinze at the Under-19 Asia Cup.

ODI World Cup: Tilak Varma could be India's answer to middle-order concerns

ODI World Cup: Tilak Varma could be India's answer to middle-order concerns

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

Tilak Varma is emerging as India's potential middle-order backup, offering left-handed batting variety and developing off-spin as selectors seek younger, flexible options ahead of the ODI World Cup.

China Masters: Hooda Out, Doubles Pair Retires In Opening Round

China Masters: Hooda Out, Doubles Pair Retires In Opening Round

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Indian shuttlers Unnati Hooda and the men's doubles pair of Hariharan Amsakarunan and M R Arjun faced early exits at the China Masters Super 750 badminton tournament. Hooda lost in women's singles, while the doubles pair retired due to apparent fitness issues, marking a challenging start for the Indian contingent.

Carlos Alcaraz says 'too much nipple' as US Open tank top sparks online frenzy

Carlos Alcaraz says 'too much nipple' as US Open tank top sparks online frenzy

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Carlos Alcaraz swapped his headline-making tank top for an undershirt after revealing too much chest, then beat Wu Yibing in straight sets to reach the US Open fourth round.

'You'll see a different Pakistan side': Babar's warning to England

'You'll see a different Pakistan side': Babar's warning to England

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Pakistan captain Babar Azam has declared himself 90 percent fit and available for the second Test against England at Lord's, aiming to lead a rejuvenated side after their innings defeat in the first match. He emphasised the need for senior players, including himself, to take responsibility and hinted at potential changes if performance doesn't improve.

Team India's preparations for Afghanistan series underway as Bumrah set to return

Team India's preparations for Afghanistan series underway as Bumrah set to return

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

The Indian cricket team is preparing for its upcoming three-match series against Afghanistan, with Jasprit Bumrah set to rejoin training after recovering from injury. The team's net session saw Washington Sundar working hard, while concerns over player injuries have led to the BCCI considering the removal of senior physio Kamlesh Jain. Pace bowling coach Morne Morkel was also absent due to visa issues.

Harshit Rana faces fitness heat as Varun Chakaravarthy's T20 future hangs in balance

Harshit Rana faces fitness heat as Varun Chakaravarthy's T20 future hangs in balance

Rediff.com16 Jul 2026

Harshit's fitness, Varun's longevity under scanner post hamstring injuries

Neetu David: 'Power-hitting training crucial for women's domestic cricket'

Neetu David: 'Power-hitting training crucial for women's domestic cricket'

Rediff.com26 Aug 2026

Former India spinner Neetu David, now head of scouting for UP Warriorz, highlights the need for focused power-hitting training in women's domestic cricket to strengthen both WPL teams and the national side, despite promising spin talent at junior levels.

Historic! Harmanpreet first captain to lead in 150 T20Is

Historic! Harmanpreet first captain to lead in 150 T20Is

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

India's Harmanpreet Kaur has become the first cricketer, male or female, to captain a team in 150 T20 Internationals.

From Injury To US Open Title: How 'Everything Aligned' For Rybakina

From Injury To US Open Title: How 'Everything Aligned' For Rybakina

Rediff.com7 days ago

Elena Rybakina secured an unexpected US Open title and the world number one ranking, overcoming a recent ankle injury that had threatened her participation.

Bumrah Setback Puts BCCI's Centre of Excellence Under Scanner

Bumrah Setback Puts BCCI's Centre of Excellence Under Scanner

Rediff.com3 Aug 2026

A significant communication breakdown between the Centre of Excellence's (CoE) sports science team and the senior national men's selection committee has been exposed by Jasprit Bumrah's unexpected absence from the Test series against Sri Lanka, alongside other player injury concerns.

Arshdeep Singh ready for Test cricket despite fewer first-class games

Arshdeep Singh ready for Test cricket despite fewer first-class games

Rediff.com10 Sep 2026

Indian pacer Arshdeep Singh discusses his aspirations for Test cricket, acknowledging his limited first-class appearances but asserting his readiness. He highlights the importance of understanding body mechanics, managing workload, and adapting to various pitch conditions. Arshdeep also touches upon the strong contingent of Punjab players in Indian cricket and his preparations for upcoming international assignments like the T20I series against Afghanistan and the Asian Games.

From Mizoram Dirt Pitches to India's Hockey Star: Lalremsiami's Golden Dream

From Mizoram Dirt Pitches to India's Hockey Star: Lalremsiami's Golden Dream

Rediff.com6 days ago

Lalremsiami Hmarzote, Mizoram's first female Olympian and Asian Games medallist, is now India's offensive lynchpin, aiming for a first Asian Games hockey gold since 1982, after overcoming initial family resistance and training on dirt pitches.

Pandya, Reddy Likely For Afghanistan T20I series; Bumrah's Return Delayed

Pandya, Reddy Likely For Afghanistan T20I series; Bumrah's Return Delayed

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

All-rounders Hardik Pandya, Washington Sundar, and Nitish Kumar Reddy are expected to recover from their respective injuries and be available for selection for India's upcoming three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, providing a significant boost to the squad.

Sunil Chhetri Expresses 'Jealousy' Over India's Upcoming Matches Against Brazil And Uruguay

Sunil Chhetri Expresses 'Jealousy' Over India's Upcoming Matches Against Brazil And Uruguay

Rediff.com29 Aug 2026

Former India captain Sunil Chhetri admitted to feeling "a little jealous" about the current national team getting the chance to play against footballing powerhouses Brazil and Uruguay, an opportunity he never had during his extensive international career. He expressed excitement for the team while also backing the coach's selection decisions and encouraging the young talent.

Avinash Sable Confident Of Asian Games Gold After Injury Battle

Avinash Sable Confident Of Asian Games Gold After Injury Battle

Rediff.com5 Sep 2026

Indian steeplechase athlete Avinash Sable details his arduous journey back to fitness after an ACL and meniscus injury in July 2025, which forced him to miss the Commonwealth Games. Despite a challenging recovery period filled with self-doubt, Sable has trained intensely at high-altitude facilities and the SAI Smart Track, expressing strong confidence in retaining his Asian Games 3000m steeplechase gold in 2026. He is set to compete in his first steeplechase event in a year, affirming his readiness for the upcoming continental challenge.

'Messi is a machine! He will remain world's best player,' says Argentina coach Scaloni

'Messi is a machine! He will remain world's best player,' says Argentina coach Scaloni

Rediff.com11 Jul 2026

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni believes 39-year-old Lionel Messi will continue to be the world's best player for as long as he desires, dismissing age concerns as Messi dominates the World Cup with eight crucial goals.

India vs Afghanistan: Where to watch T20I series

India vs Afghanistan: Where to watch T20I series

Rediff.com8 Sep 2026

Sony Sports Network has secured exclusive television broadcast rights for the upcoming three-match T20I series between India and Afghanistan, scheduled from September 13 to 17 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. The series will feature India led by Shreyas Iyer and Afghanistan led by Ibrahim Zadran, with both teams showcasing aggressive T20 cricket. This acquisition strengthens Sony's sports portfolio and offers a platform for Afghanistan to demonstrate its talent against a top-tier team.

Padikkal's captaincy move has a bigger goal

Padikkal's captaincy move has a bigger goal

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Top-order batter Devdutt Padikkal discusses his new role as India A captain, viewing it as a valuable learning experience that will positively influence his batting ahead of the upcoming New Zealand tour. He also reflects on his recent good form and the challenges of adapting to different playing conditions.

BCCI to Prioritise Rest, Practice Matches for India Tours to SENA Countries

BCCI to Prioritise Rest, Practice Matches for India Tours to SENA Countries

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

The BCCI is committed to improving player preparation for major series in South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia (SENA countries) by ensuring adequate rest, acclimatisation, and practice matches, according to secretary Devajit Saikia.

Rybakina keeps World No 1 dream alive at US Open

Rybakina keeps World No 1 dream alive at US Open

Rediff.com4 Sep 2026

World number two Elena Rybakina defeated Spain's Jessica Bouzas Maneiro 6-2 6-4 to progress to the third round of the U.S. Open. Rybakina, aiming for a third Grand Slam title and the top WTA ranking, showcased a dominant performance despite a late service break. She expressed happiness with her win and her recovery from fitness doubts, setting up a clash with Yuliia Starodubtseva.

Krunal Pandya refuses to give up on India return after Afghanistan T20I omission

Krunal Pandya refuses to give up on India return after Afghanistan T20I omission

Rediff.com1 Sep 2026

Krunal Pandya kept his India comeback hopes alive after missing the Afghanistan T20I squad, following a strong IPL season where he impressed with bat and ball.

Performance, fitness key as Pakistan Cricket Board launches new contract system

Performance, fitness key as Pakistan Cricket Board launches new contract system

Rediff.com15 Jun 2026

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has launched a new central contracts system, categorising players based on their specialisation in red-ball, white-ball (ODI/T20), and T20/franchise cricket. This new structure aims to provide clear pathways, improve financial benefits for red-ball players, and ensure transparency in selection through data analysis.

Selectors push for KL Rahul, Mohd Siraj and Devdutt Padikkal in Duleep final

Selectors push for KL Rahul, Mohd Siraj and Devdutt Padikkal in Duleep final

Rediff.com3 Sep 2026

Veteran Indian cricketers KL Rahul, Mohammed Siraj, and Devdutt Padikkal have been asked to play in the Duleep Trophy final for South Zone against East Zone. The participation of other T20I players like Tilak Varma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, and Ishan Kishan depends on Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir's approval. Additionally, chief selector Ajit Agarkar will attend the final, and the BCCI is arranging visas for net bowlers for the Asian Games.

India coach Marijne questions tight FIH World Cup schedule after loss

India coach Marijne questions tight FIH World Cup schedule after loss

Rediff.com22 Aug 2026

India's coach Sjoerd Marijne has criticised the tight scheduling at the FIH World Cup, particularly after his team's 0-2 loss to the Netherlands, citing the burden of playing on consecutive days.

CM Vijay hails Praggnanandhaa after historic Grand Chess Tour triumph

CM Vijay hails Praggnanandhaa after historic Grand Chess Tour triumph

Rediff.com28 Aug 2026

'...his victory in securing the champion's title is a fitting recognition of his extraordinary talent and unwavering perseverance.'

Sehwag to Host Rise and Fall

Sehwag to Host Rise and Fall

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Rise and Fall Season 2 will feature Virender Sehwag as host, with 15 celebrities divided into Rulers and Workers, navigating power, money, alliances and shifting strategies.

Riyan Parag reveals his admiration for Manchester United, Cristiano Ronaldo

Riyan Parag reveals his admiration for Manchester United, Cristiano Ronaldo

Rediff.com20 Aug 2026

Indian cricketer Riyan Parag discusses his lifelong passion for football, particularly his admiration for Manchester United and Cristiano Ronaldo. He also speculates on which footballers could play cricket and which cricketers could play football.

England Whitewash Pakistan For First Series Win In 19 Months

England Whitewash Pakistan For First Series Win In 19 Months

Rediff.com12 Sep 2026

Joe Root's unbeaten 62 guided England to a dominant eight-wicket victory in the third Test against Pakistan, securing a 3-0 series whitewash despite early batting jitters. This marks England's first series win in 19 months.

'Is This How You Groom Players?' Srikkanth Slams Iyer

'Is This How You Groom Players?' Srikkanth Slams Iyer

Rediff.com13 Jul 2026

The decision to bring in and then drop Vaibhav Sooryavanshi during India's T20I series against England has raised eyebrows, and former captain Kris Srikkanth has shared his disappointment over the way the youngster was handled.

Gujarat Prison Institute Upgrades Sports Facilities For Future Events

Gujarat Prison Institute Upgrades Sports Facilities For Future Events

Rediff.com30 Aug 2026

The Gujarat Institute of Prisons and Correctional Administration (GIPCA) is developing modern sports facilities, including high-quality grounds, in anticipation of international events like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games. These upgrades, part of a Phase-I renovation by the Police Housing Corporation, will also provide advanced training facilities like smart classrooms and computer labs for departmental trainees. The prison department recently showcased its sporting prowess by winning the 'Champion Trophy' at the DGP Cup 2026-27 Gujarat Police Wrestling Cluster Competition, securing 14 medals.

'If Rohit, Kohli score runs why should we look at their age?': Harbhajan

'If Rohit, Kohli score runs why should we look at their age?': Harbhajan

Rediff.com13 Aug 2026

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has voiced strong support for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, emphasising that performance, not age, should be the primary criterion for selection.

'No blame game over Bumrah, Sudharsan injuries': V V S Laxman defends BCCI CoE

'No blame game over Bumrah, Sudharsan injuries': V V S Laxman defends BCCI CoE

Rediff.com9 Aug 2026

VVS Laxman, head of the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, has defended the CoE against criticism regarding slow player recovery, stating that cricketers are not 'machines' and rehabilitation timelines can vary.

IPL Stays in Australia's Plans, But Workload Comes First

IPL Stays in Australia's Plans, But Workload Comes First

Rediff.com8 Aug 2026

Australia's head coach Andrew McDonald discusses how the Indian Premier League (IPL) can be integrated into the national team's demanding international schedule, emphasising the need for workload management, especially for fast bowlers. He highlights the IPL's benefits for player development while acknowledging the challenges of a packed calendar including major Test series and ICC events.

Manpreet Singh Eyes Historic Hockey World Cup Title

Manpreet Singh Eyes Historic Hockey World Cup Title

Rediff.com14 Aug 2026

Veteran Indian midfielder Manpreet Singh, preparing for his fourth and potentially final Hockey World Cup, expresses his determination to lead India to its first title in 51 years. He highlights the team's experience, preparation, and focus on fitness and defence, confident in their ability to reach the final.

Prime Volleyball League auction sees record bids for Indian talent

Prime Volleyball League auction sees record bids for Indian talent

Rediff.com18 Aug 2026

The Prime Volleyball League auction saw Shameemudheen become the biggest Indian buy at Rs 20 lakh, with other players like Muhammad Nihal C K, Shon T John, and Jasjodh Singh also securing significant bids. The auction also highlighted the growing importance of grassroots talent, with several U-21 players earning spots in PVL franchises, underscoring the league's commitment to nurturing future stars.

Sunil Chhetri 'a little jealous' as India prepares for Brazil, Uruguay clashes

Sunil Chhetri 'a little jealous' as India prepares for Brazil, Uruguay clashes

Rediff.com31 Aug 2026

Indian football legend Sunil Chhetri expressed a mix of excitement and 'a little jealousy' about the national team's unprecedented opportunity to play against football giants Brazil and Uruguay in October 2026, an experience he never had in his two-decade career.

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.