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Sports / Rediff

India's Top Shuttlers Set for World C'ships Battle on Home Soil

Indian badminton stars Lakshya Sen, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, Chirag Shetty, and Ayush Shetty are preparing for the BWF World Championships in New Delhi. Sen, a former bronze medallist, aims for a deep run despite an inconsistent year, while the doubles pair focuses on adapting to court conditions. Rising star Ayush Shetty faces a tough opening challenge against world No. 1 Shi Yuqi, with all players expressing excitement about playing in front of a home crowd and noting improved venue conditions

16 Aug 2026 6:31 pm
Sindhu's 'hunger' drives her 6th World Championships medal bid

Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu is aiming for a historic sixth World Championships medal, driven by her enduring hunger towards the game since starting her senior career in 2009.

16 Aug 2026 2:35 pm
BWF Worlds: Sindhu eyes 6th medal; Satwik-Chirag chase glory

Two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu is set to chase an unprecedented sixth medal at the BWF World Championships, which are returning to India after 17 years, beginning in New Delhi on Monday. Sindhu, already a five-time World Championships medallist, is high on confidence after winning the Japan Open Super 750 last month.

16 Aug 2026 1:07 pm
Ponting Shocked, Hayden Labels Australia's Loss 'Embarrassing'

Bangladesh secured a historic nine-wicket victory over Australia in Darwin, marking their first-ever Test win on Australian soil and stunning the No. 1-ranked Test side.

16 Aug 2026 12:07 pm
Hockey World Cup: 'Past performances don't matter in India vs Pakistan match'

Pakistan hockey captain Abu Bakar Mahmood expressed confidence in his team's ability to defeat arch-rivals India at the upcoming FIH World Cup, stating that "rankings don't matter" in such high-stakes encounters and performance on the day is key.

16 Aug 2026 12:06 pm
'Proud to be a dimagi Naxal': Chidambaram hits back at Modi

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram responded to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's dimagi naxal remark by stating he is proud to be a dimagi naxal. Modi had warned against dimagi naxals who manipulate policies and promote violence, despite the success in curbing armed Naxalism. Chidambaram's comment came after Modi's Independence Day speech where he highlighted the threat posed by ideological supporters of Naxalism.

16 Aug 2026 11:46 am
Amit Bhatia-led consortium acquires minority stake in Liverpool football club

Premier League club Liverpool FC has finalised a deal to sell a minority equity stake to a consortium led by British-Indian businessman Amit Bhatia.

16 Aug 2026 10:20 am
50th-ranked Tirante stuns Djokovic at Cincinnati Open

Novak Djokovic suffered a surprising defeat at the Cincinnati Open, losing to Thiago Agustin Tirante in a match where the Serbian star struggled with the heat and required a medical timeout.

16 Aug 2026 10:10 am
1st Test: Green's century delays Bangladesh's victory push

Australia all-rounder Cameron Green scored a defiant century to frustrate Bangladesh on day four of the first Test in Darwin.

16 Aug 2026 9:22 am
'Those who oppose 'Vande Mataram' don't know their mother'

Kerala University vice-chancellor Mohanan Kunnummal on Saturday said those who do not say Vande Mataram do not know who their mother is.

15 Aug 2026 11:12 pm
Bridge Championships: Alok's IV Advances

Alok's IV, led by Alok Daga, secured the top position in the eight-round Swiss League of the East Zone Bridge Championships in Kolkata, advancing to the pre-quarterfinals. Several other teams also qualified, with initial pre-quarterfinal leads established by Bangur Cement, Tornatae, Conquerors, and Deepadhar, among others.

15 Aug 2026 10:50 pm
Mahindra Racing's Formula E Title Bid Suffers Setback

Mahindra Racing's pursuit of a third-place finish in the Formula E Teams' championship was hampered after a challenging penultimate race in London. Despite Edoardo Mortara's impressive recovery from 18th to seventh, Nyck De Vries struggled, leaving Mahindra 13 points behind Andretti heading into the season finale. Poor qualifying performance due to tyre issues was cited as a key factor. The Drivers' Championship remains open for three contenders, while Jaguar TCS leads the Teams' standings.

15 Aug 2026 9:24 pm
India's tricolour embarks on global time-zone relay on I-Day

India launched 'Suryapath Tiranga', a unique initiative involving over 50 Indian missions globally, to digitally relay images of the tricolour across multiple time zones, starting from Fiji, to mark the country's 80th Independence Day.

15 Aug 2026 9:17 pm
Why Devdutt Padikkal's Galle Masterclass Was No Fluke!

India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak lauded Devdutt Padikkal for his maiden international century against Sri Lanka, highlighting his dedicated work on back foot play and shot selection. Kotak also provided an update on vice-captain KL Rahul, who retired hurt due to cramps but is expected to be fit for the next day's play. The coach further discussed the Galle pitch conditions, anticipating more turn as the Test progresses, and praised Rahul's versatility across formats.

15 Aug 2026 8:09 pm
CJP's Instagram account taken down on I-Day, restored

The official Instagram account of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) was temporarily taken down on Independence Day, prompting the outfit to allege an attempt to silence its voice. The account was later restored, and the CJP, known for its student-centric campaigns, vowed not to be intimidated.

15 Aug 2026 7:57 pm
Durand Cup: Upbeat East Bengal Ready for Indian Army Challenge

East Bengal, fresh from their AFC Champions League Two qualifying play-off victory, are set to face a formidable Indian Army Football Team in the Durand Cup quarterfinals. The match, crucial for a spot in the semi-finals, will test East Bengal's momentum against the Army's disciplined play. Another quarterfinal features unbeaten SC Delhi against debutants FC Raengdai.

15 Aug 2026 7:49 pm
Scheffler Takes Lead At FedEx St. Jude; Indian-Origin Golfers In Contention

World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler has taken a commanding three-shot lead at the halfway stage of the FedEx St. Jude Championship with a stunning nine-under 61. Meanwhile, Indian-origin golfers Sudarshan Yellamaraju and Aaron Rai are well-positioned to advance to the next playoff event, the BMW Championship, by staying within the crucial Top-50 standings.

15 Aug 2026 6:48 pm
Pranavi Urs Lone Indian To Make Cut At Swiss Ladies Open

Indian golfer Pranavi Urs successfully made the cut at the VP Bank Swiss Ladies Open, finishing Tied-28th after two rounds. Her compatriots Tvesa Malik and Diksha Dagar, however, missed the 36-hole cut. Sweden's Kajsa Arwefjall holds a commanding three-shot lead heading into the final round, seeking her first Ladies European Tour victory.

15 Aug 2026 6:41 pm
Asian Games: Indian Athletics Team To Train In Japan

The Indian athletics team will undergo an acclimatisation camp at the University of Tsukuba near Tokyo before the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya. This follows an MoU between SAI and the University. Athletes are also returning from Czech Republic for a training stint and an event in Bhubaneswar, though Neeraj Chopra will not participate. The Athletics Federation of India has already submitted a list of over 72 athletes for the Games to the Indian Olympic Association.

15 Aug 2026 6:32 pm
India has 'more potential than any country' for esports: Esports Foundation

Mike McCabe, COO and Deputy CEO of the Esports Foundation, believes India has and quot;more potential than any country on the planet and quot; for esports, citing its enormous fan base, improving competitive ecosystem, and evolving policy environment as key drivers for rapid acceleration in the sport.

15 Aug 2026 6:28 pm
CJP launches 'School Thik Karo' campaign, demands fee cap

Abhijeet Dipke, convenor of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), has initiated the 'School Thik Karo' campaign from his native village in Hingoli, Maharashtra, to address the alleged neglect of government schools and advocate for a fee cap on private educational institutions.

15 Aug 2026 5:51 pm
How can India be a true sporting nation? Saina Nehwal's blunt take

Former world No. 1 shuttler Saina Nehwal has stated that India's true measure as a 'sporting nation' will be its position in the global medals tally, not just hosting major tournaments. She highlighted the significant progress made by women in sports but emphasised the need for better financial backing, sponsorships, and comprehensive support systems including psychologists and proper coaching from an early age to nurture more champions.

15 Aug 2026 5:34 pm
Spain's World Cup Hero Joins PSG from Barcelona

Paris St Germain have signed Spain's World Cup-winning forward Ferran Torres from Barcelona on a contract until 2031, the two clubs announced on Saturday.

15 Aug 2026 4:41 pm
Table Tennis Nationals Begin Despite TTFI Suspension

The UTT National Ranking Table Tennis Championships has commenced in Kanpur, featuring 1900 players across 12 categories, including top senior athletes. The tournament proceeds despite the Sports Ministry's recent suspension of the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) over election irregularities, with the TTFI asserting its autonomy.

15 Aug 2026 4:22 pm
Modi's new target on I-Day: 6 crore 'Lakhpati Didis'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a new target of creating six crore 'Lakhpati Didis' to empower women and transform the rural economy. He highlighted the success of the existing initiative and the growing contribution of women in various sectors, from defence to technology.

15 Aug 2026 3:57 pm
Messi's next match unclear after father's death

Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos addressed Lionel Messi's return to play following the recent demise of his father, Jorge. Hoyos emphasised the need for silence, calm and peace for Messi to grieve and dictate his schedule, highlighting the club's supportive approach as they manage the superstar's on-field comeback amidst crucial MLS fixtures.

15 Aug 2026 3:50 pm
Vats Out Of Bendigo Open Semis

Indian squash player Sanya Vats was defeated by Australia's Rachael Grinham in a closely contested five-game semifinal match at the Bendigo Open, a PSA Challenger event. Vats, the top seed, had previously advanced by beating England's Zoe Tanner in the quarterfinals.

15 Aug 2026 3:35 pm
India's next Olympic stars? Modi targets 5-15 age group

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed India's commitment to hosting the 2036 Olympic Games and unveiled a comprehensive nationwide talent hunt programme aimed at identifying and nurturing sporting talent among children aged five to 15 years.

15 Aug 2026 11:56 am
Jeev Milkha Singh On Indian Golfers' Asian Games Preparation

Indian golfing legend Jeev Milkha Singh offers crucial advice to the national golf team ahead of the Asian Games, emphasising the importance of a strong short game and adapting to Japan's fast greens and windy conditions to secure medals.

15 Aug 2026 11:46 am
Mahindra's Enduring Formula E Strategy

Mahindra Racing has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Formula E, extending its participation until at least the Gen4 era in 2030, despite other major manufacturers exiting the championship. CEO Frederic Bertrand highlights this as a continuation of Mahindra's strategy to use electric racing as a technology laboratory, focusing on software, hardware, and human capital development that feeds into its wider automotive business and showcases Indian manufacturing prowess on a global stage.

15 Aug 2026 11:28 am
Gambhir, Pathan Extends Wishes on Independence Day

Indian men's cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir, the BCCI, and former cricketer Irfan Pathan led tributes on India's 80th Independence Day, honouring freedom fighters and extending greetings to all Indians.

15 Aug 2026 9:23 am
Modi's Olympic Dream: India Aims To Host 2036 Games, Launches Talent Search

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced India's strong bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games and detailed plans for a nationwide talent hunt for children aged 5 to 15 to ensure significant participation and success in the event. He highlighted the success of the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and India's growing presence in global sports.

15 Aug 2026 9:02 am
Bezos-backed consortium buys minority stake in Liverpool FC

A consortium, including Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, has acquired approximately one-third minority stake in Premier League club Liverpool FC, with current owners Fenway Sports Group retaining majority control.

14 Aug 2026 11:40 pm
Arteta: Arsenal 'hungry' for Community Shield

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his squad's hunger and motivation to win the Community Shield against Manchester City, aiming to start the new season with a trophy after a busy recruitment period.

14 Aug 2026 10:35 pm
East Zone Bridge: Deepadhar Leads After Day 1

Deepadhar, featuring former Asian Games gold medallists, has taken an early lead in the fifth East Zone Bridge Championship in Kolkata, accumulating 65.22 Victory Points after four rounds. The tournament, a Bridge Federation of India Ranking Two event, involves around 300 players from 50 teams across East Zone states competing for a Rs 6 lakh prize purse, with the top 16 teams advancing to the knockout stage.

14 Aug 2026 7:44 pm
Sharma, Sandhu Struggle In Denmark

Indian golfers Shubhankar Sharma and Yuvraj Sandhu had a challenging start at the Danish Golf Championship, with Sharma likely to miss the cut after a 2-over 74. Frenchman Felix Mory set a course record with a 7-under 65 to take the lead.

14 Aug 2026 7:23 pm
Urs Moves Up At Swiss Ladies Open

Indian golfer Pranavi Urs showed improvement in the second round of the VP Bank Swiss Ladies Open, moving to T-24. While Urs progressed, fellow Indian golfers Tvesa Malik and Diksha Dagar faced challenges, with Dagar at risk of missing the cut. Sweden's Kajsa Arwefjall leads the tournament, maintaining a strong performance.

14 Aug 2026 7:21 pm
Armed Forces Athletes Are Nation's Pride, Says Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded armed forces athletes for their medal-winning performance at the recently concluded Commonwealth Games, calling them a 'perfect blend of a soldier and a champion'. He highlighted their strong willpower and the inspiration they provide to the nation, especially the youth. Indian Army athletes secured 16 medals, including 8 gold, contributing significantly to India's overall tally.

14 Aug 2026 6:17 pm
Dilawari Extends Lead With Fourth WPGT Win

Ridhima Dilawari secured her fourth title on the Hero Women's Pro Golf Tour at Prestige Golfshire, Bengaluru, with a final round of 4-under 68. She finished one shot ahead of Mannat Brar, extending her lead in the Hero Order of Merit.

14 Aug 2026 6:15 pm
Egypt's Refaay And Hazem Win HCL Squash Titles

Egyptian squash players Seif Refaay and Sohayla Hazem secured the men's and women's titles, respectively, at the HCL Squash PSA Challenger Tour. Refaay, the third seed, overcame top seed Mohamed Gohar, while third seed Hazem defeated second seed Menna Walid in their respective finals.

14 Aug 2026 4:50 pm
Ready For The World Humanoid Robot Games?

Glimpses of humanoid robots training across soccer, table tennis and other events ahead of the 2026 World Humanoid Robot Games in Beijing.

14 Aug 2026 2:02 pm
Tata Steel To Sell JFSPL To Churchill Brothers

Tata Steel has announced the sale of its entire 100% equity stake in Jamshedpur Football and Sporting Private Limited (JFSPL), a wholly-owned subsidiary, to Churchill Brothers Sports Club for a nominal consideration of Rs 100. The transfer was approved by the company's Committee of Directors.

14 Aug 2026 1:57 pm
Infantino Gains Arab Support As FIFA Faces Internal Strife

Six Arab football federations, including 2030 World Cup co-host Morocco and Qatar, have publicly declared their full support and confidence in FIFA President Gianni Infantino. This backing comes as Infantino faces significant backlash and withdrawals of support from European and Oceania federations over his failed $20 billion private investment plan for the World Cup, highlighting a growing schism within global football governance.

14 Aug 2026 1:35 pm
Mahindra Racing Eyes Record Finish In Formula E Finale

Nyck de Vries discusses Mahindra Racing's impressive turnaround in the Formula E season, as they head into the London finale aiming for a historic top-three team championship finish. Despite a challenging start, de Vries' victories and the team's collective effort have positioned them for their best result since 2016-17, with de Vries also reflecting on his F1 experience.

14 Aug 2026 1:20 pm
'Maini will need to choose between Formula E and Formula 1'

Mahindra Racing CEO Frederic Bertrand has stated that while Indian reserve driver Kush Maini has the potential to become a Formula E driver, the team will not compromise its competitive ambitions for nationality.

14 Aug 2026 12:43 pm
Cristiano Ronaldo back in training days after wedding

Cristiano Ronaldo has returned to training with Al-Nassr just days after marrying his long-time partner Georgina Rodriguez in a private ceremony in Cascais, Portugal.

14 Aug 2026 9:18 am
Shelton outclasses Nakashima to win back-to-back Canadian Open titles

Ben Shelton successfully defended his Canadian Open title, defeating fellow American Brandon Nakashima in an all-American final.

14 Aug 2026 8:15 am
Iga Swiatek triumphs at Canadian Open to win first title of season

Iga Swiatek defeated Elena Rybakina 6-2, 6-3 to win her first title of the season at the Canadian Open. The victory provides a significant confidence boost for Swiatek ahead of the US Open.

14 Aug 2026 8:07 am
Women's Sports Viewership, Ad Spend Up in US

Women's sports garnered 28.6 billion minutes of views in the U.S. in the first half of 2026, an 18% increase year-over-year, with advertising spend up 120% since 2022, according to a Nielsen report.

13 Aug 2026 11:59 pm
Row erupts over 'purification' of venue of Kharge's visit

The Congress party has strongly condemned the 'purification' of a rally venue in Haldwani, Uttarakhand, after a public meeting addressed by party chief Mallikarjun Kharge, alleging it reflects an 'anti-Dalit' mindset of the BJP and RSS.

13 Aug 2026 11:50 pm