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India's 501-strong squad eyes a new Asian Games high

India's large contingent of 501 athletes is set to compete at the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, aiming to showcase the nation's growing sporting depth and its ambition to become a global top-10 sporting power by 2036. Despite initial accommodation challenges, the focus is on building on the momentum from the record 2022 Hangzhou Games, with strong medal hopes in shooting, athletics, cricket, badminton, and hockey.

Rediff 18 Sep 2026 12:23 pm

Indian Men's Chess Team Starts Average, Gukesh's Rating Dips

World champion D Gukesh's live rating has slipped below 2700 after the first two rounds of the 46th Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The Indian men's team, defending champions, had an average start with two unconvincing wins, while the Indian women's team performed better against weaker opposition. Gukesh's rating drop comes ahead of his world title challenge against Javokhir Sindarov in November.

Rediff 18 Sep 2026 12:17 pm

India's Asian Games Flag Hoisting Ceremony Faces Disruption

The traditional flag hoisting ceremony for the Asian Games in Nagoya, involving India and other nations, was significantly delayed and disrupted due to unspecified rouble and a lack of communication between organisers. This incident further highlighted the logistical chaos and criticism surrounding the event's arrangements, including athlete lodging.

Rediff 18 Sep 2026 12:16 pm

Bhaker, Toor to carry India's flag at Asian Games opening

Double Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker and defending shot put champion Tajinderpal Singh Toor have been named as India's flag-bearers for the Asian Games opening ceremony. Bhaker's Olympic achievements and Toor's past Asian Games gold medals highlight their selection.

Rediff 18 Sep 2026 11:47 am

Logistical Chaos Mars Asian Games Flag Hoisting

The traditional flag hoisting ceremony at the Asian Games in Nagoya was delayed and then abruptly halted due to unspecified rouble, leaving multiple countries, including India, awaiting clarity. This incident adds to growing criticism against organisers for logistical chaos, including complaints about delayed and cramped container-style lodging facilities provided to athletes to cut costs.

Rediff 18 Sep 2026 11:12 am

Asian Games: Indian men's soft tennis team lose to Chinese Taipei

The Indian men's Soft Tennis Team was defeated 0-3 by Chinese Taipei in their Preliminary Round, Group C match at the 2026 Asian Games on Friday.

Rediff 18 Sep 2026 10:22 am

Teenager Floyd Samba's Stunning Debut For Manchester City!

Seventeen-year-old English midfielder Floyd Samba made a sensational senior debut for Manchester City, scoring two goals and earning the man of the match award in their 5-0 League Cup victory over Norwich City.

Rediff 18 Sep 2026 8:58 am

India's 2038 Asian Games Bid: A Long Road Ahead

India's bid to host the 2038 Asian Games will not be decided before 2028, as the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) has revealed that five other countries are also vying for the same edition.

Rediff 18 Sep 2026 8:46 am

EPL Weekend: Man Utd Look to Revive Season At Fulham

Manchester United and Tottenham face crucial Premier League tests this weekend, while Arsenal, Man City, Liverpool and Chelsea seek momentum.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 10:19 pm

India Leads 46th Chess Olympiad After Second Round

Indian chess teams, both open and women's, secured victories in the second round of the 46th Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, maintaining their top positions with four match points. While the open team faced some challenges, including draws for D Gukesh and Praggnanandhaa, Nihal Sarin's win was crucial. The women's team achieved a more dominant performance with wins from Divya Deshmukh, Vantika Agrawal, and B Savitha Shri.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 9:43 pm

AIFF Plans Discounted Tickets, Fan Parks For India's FIFA Friendlies

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) is facilitating discounted tickets for members of Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, and Mohammedan Sporting for India's upcoming FIFA tier-1 friendlies against Panama, Brazil, and Uruguay. These high-profile matches will be held in Bengaluru and Kolkata, with the AIFF also planning Fan Parks across districts to promote grassroots football and allow wider viewership. The matches are seen as a significant opportunity for the Indian national team to test itself against top-ranked opponents.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 9:02 pm

Five Indian Athletes Get Visas For Asian Games

Five Indian track and field athletes, including pole vaulter Sindhushree Ganesh and triple jumper Asha Ilango, who faced visa delays, have now received their travel documents and are set to join the Asian Games contingent in Japan. They will participate in an acclimatisation camp before the athletics competition begins.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 8:24 pm

'We Might Pick Up Injuries': Satwik-Chirag on Asiad Defence

Satwik-Chirag face a 10-day Asian Games grind as the defending champions focus on fitness, injury prevention and workload management.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 8:14 pm

Ahuja In Snooker Semis

Delhi State 6-Red champion Abhishek Ahuja has secured his spot in the semifinals of the 49th Delhi State 15-Red Snooker Championship. He achieved this with decisive victories over Asif Malik and Anuj Uppal. Other quarterfinal winners include Shoaib Khan and Sandeep Gulati, with the championship organised by the Delhi Billiards and Snooker Association (DBSA).

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 7:07 pm

Klopp: Reclaim National Pride from 'Wrong People'

Germany coach Juergen Klopp has urged citizens to reclaim expressions of national pride from 'the wrong people,' in a clear rebuke to the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) following their recent election victory.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 6:24 pm

Sanand Sports Utsav Launched By Saina Nehwal

Olympic medallist Saina Nehwal inaugurated the Khele Sanand Sports Utsav, an 18-day event aimed at promoting sports among 25,000 students across 105 villages in Sanand taluka, Gujarat. The initiative by Vijayi Bharat Foundation features various sports and age categories, with a focus on grassroots sports development.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 5:23 pm

Joshi Leads Nava Raipur Open After Challenging Day

Khalin Joshi retained his one-shot lead after the third round of the inaugural Nava Raipur Open, despite a challenging day on the course. Heavy rain forced the tournament to be played over the back nine, with Angad Cheema emerging as his closest competitor.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 5:20 pm

Indian Surfers Aim For LA Olympics Through Asian Games

Frenchman Samai Reboul, coach of the Indian national surfing team, views India's Asian Games debut as a crucial step towards qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The team, comprising two men and two women, is preparing in Mahabalipuram for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, where surfing makes its continental debut and offers Olympic quota places.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 5:19 pm

Asiad: Indians Waited 12 Hours for Rooms on Cruise Ship

India's Asian Games contingent faces accommodation issues at Costa Serena, as athletes report cramped rooms and long delays amid organisational chaos.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 5:02 pm

Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games: Accommodation Chaos Hits Host Japan Team

The Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games are grappling with significant accommodation issues, including male and female athletes being allocated shared rooms and long waiting times for credential activation, forcing even the host Japan team to seek alternative arrangements.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 4:38 pm

Asian Games: Athletes Struggle With Accommodation Issues

Indian athletes at the Asian Games in Nagoya are facing significant accommodation challenges, including cramped rooms on a cruise ship and long waits for check-in. The host nation's athletes are also affected, with complaints about shared rooms and general mismanagement. Organisers have opted against a traditional Athletes Village, leading to athletes travelling long distances for training, further exacerbating the logistical issues ahead of the mega-event.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 4:37 pm

India U15 Football Team Set For FIFA World Cup Challenge

India's U15 men's football team has been drawn into Group K for the inaugural FIFA U15 World Cup and Festival Azerbaijan 2026. Coached by Bibiano Fernandes, the team will play five qualification matches in Baku against Bahrain, Cameroon, Grenada, Laos, and Senegal, starting October 24. The tournament features 191 national teams and an 8v8 format.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 4:24 pm

LaLiga: Raphinha hits hat-trick as Barcelona thrash Racing

Hansi Flick has become the first Barcelona manager to win the club's opening seven competitive matches of a season after a dominant 7-2 victory over Racing Santander.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 4:03 pm

Vijay Kumar Seeks Independent Scrutiny Of NRAI Coach Appointments

Olympic silver medallist Vijay Kumar has called for an independent review of the National Rifle Association of India's (NRAI) coaching appointments, citing concerns about transparency, eligibility criteria, and potential conflicts of interest. The NRAI, however, asserts that appointments are merit-based and views Kumar's concerns as 'sour grapes' after his own non-selection.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 3:57 pm

Discus Star Seema Kaliramna's Sacrifice For Sporting Glory

Indian discus thrower Seema Kaliramna discusses the emotional challenges of balancing motherhood with her sporting career, as she prepares for the Asian Games after winning bronze at the Commonwealth Games.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 3:47 pm

Verstappen overtakes 100 go-karters in 35 minutes at Silverstone

Four-time Formula One champion Max Verstappen showcased his racing prowess by overtaking 100 competitors in just 13 laps during the 'Max vs 100' go-karting event at Silverstone.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 3:37 pm

Teqball: Indian Duo Bows Out Of Asian Games

Indian Teqball players Declan Marshall Gonsalves and Mohamed Anas Imran Beg were eliminated from the men's doubles competition at the Asian Games after losing both their group matches.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 3:28 pm

Asian Games: Indian Shooters Face Logistical Hurdles In Nagoya

A senior coach from India's shooting contingent for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games has voiced disappointment over the logistical arrangements, particularly the long travel times to the training venue.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 3:15 pm

Lionel Messi scores landmark 100th goal for Inter Miami

Lionel Messi scored his 100th goal for Inter Miami as the Major League Soccer side beat Mexican club Cruz Azul 2-0 to win the Campeones Cup at Nu Stadium in Florida on Wednesday.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 2:55 pm

Typhoon Dujuan threatens to disrupt early Asian Games events

Organisers of the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya are preparing for potential disruptions as Tropical Storm Dujuan, with maximum sustained winds of 90 kph, heads towards central Japan, threatening events already underway.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 2:33 pm

India Hockey Team Focused On Asian Games Gold After World Cup Lessons

Indian men's hockey coach Craig Fulton discusses the team's preparations for the Asian Games, aiming to defend their title and secure direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Following a disappointing World Cup, the team is focused on learning from past mistakes and approaching the tournament with full respect for all opponents, while also highlighting a recent team bonding exercise.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 2:13 pm

I'm done being negative, playing the victim: Sumit Nagal

Indian tennis player Sumit Nagal reflects on his challenging 2026 season, marked by injuries and mental toll. He discusses his decision to stop playing the victim and focus on enjoying the game rather than solely chasing results, a mental shift that has improved his performance in recent months.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 12:32 pm

14-hour wait, no rooms! Asian Games 2026 chaos leaves Indian athletes stranded in Nagoya

The Asian Games 2026 preparations in Japan's Nagoya city have run into a major accommodation mess, with athletes from several countries reportedly struggling to find rooms even after reaching the host city. Indian athletes and...

India TV 17 Sep 2026 12:31 pm

India's 1966 Asian Games Hockey Gold: A Legend Remembers

Legendary Indian hockey player Harbinder Singh reminisces about India's historic first Asian Games gold medal in 1966, defeating arch-rivals Pakistan. He shares insights into the team's motivation, the challenging final match played with 10 men, and the evolution of hockey over the decades, including concerns about declining domestic spectator interest and India's prospects for future Asian Games.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 12:08 pm

Davis Cup: Dhakshineswar Leads India's Charge Against Korea

India's Davis Cup team is set for a high-stakes Qualifier Round 2 clash against South Korea in Seoul, with players like Dhakshineswar Suresh and Sumit Nagal aiming to secure a historic Final 8 berth under the current format.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 12:07 pm

How Shah Rukh's Chak De! India Inspires Indonesian Hockey Team At Asian Games

Indonesian hockey players, particularly Ferdian Fathur Rahman and Firdaus Muhammad, are deeply inspired by the Bollywood film Chak De! India as they prepare to face India at the Asian Games.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 11:46 am

Bhavani Dev-Led India's Fencing Squad Depart For Asian Games

A 20-member Indian fencing squad, led by Olympian C A Bhavani Devi, has departed for Japan to participate in the Asian Games.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 10:08 am

Clearlake Capital takes full control of Chelsea FC; Boehly exits chairman role

Clearlake Capital Group is set to acquire the minority interests of co-owners Todd Boehly and Mark Walter, taking full control of Chelsea FC, with Boehly stepping down as chairman.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 9:44 am

East Bengal FC Held To Draw In AFC Champions League Two Opener

East Bengal FC squandered a two-goal lead against Jordanian champions Al Hussein SC, settling for a 2-2 draw in their AFC Champions League Two Group D opener.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 9:19 am

PIX: Two goals up, Man Utd dumped by Brighton in League Cup

Manchester United suffered a historic 3-2 home defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion in the League Cup, despite taking a two-goal lead. This loss marks the first time in nearly 50 years United have lost at home after being two goals up, adding to their recent struggles including a Premier League loss to Manchester City and a poor start to the season.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 5:20 am

UEFA 'On Course' to Find Challenger to FIFA President Infantino

UEFA vice-president Laura McAllister stated that UEFA is actively seeking a credible challenger to FIFA President Gianni Infantino for the upcoming March election, emphasising the need for a candidate capable of uniting football's confederations and delivering lasting governance reform, rather than merely installing a European figurehead.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 12:19 am

Djokovic set for China Open return after 11-year absence

Novak Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam champion, has announced his return to the China Open after an 11-year absence, seeking to regain form after a surprising first-round exit at the US Open.

Rediff 17 Sep 2026 12:04 am

Chess Olympiad: FIDE to reimburse teams affected by accommodation chaos

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has announced it will reimburse teams, including India, that faced accommodation issues and had to pay for their own rooms at the Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 11:55 pm

NADA provisionally suspends eight athletes

The Hindu 16 Sep 2026 10:34 pm

India vs West Indies Series: Men in Blue Squads For ODI, T20 Out; Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya Not In List

Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya will not be involved in India's forthcoming white-ball series against the West Indies after the selectors named the ODI and T20I squads on Wednesday. The news regarding the exclusion of Rishabh Pant is among the most

Oneindia 16 Sep 2026 9:58 pm

Pakistan Wants Asian Champions Trophy Shifted From India

Pakistan has requested the Asian Hockey Federation to move its Asian Champions Trophy matches from India to a neutral venue, citing a sensitive bilateral situation and security concerns. Hockey India has rejected this demand, stating there will be no change in venue for the tournament scheduled in Mohali and Jalandhar from October 27 to November 5. Pakistan's participation remains uncertain, with potential replacements like Bangladesh and Oman being considered.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 9:24 pm

Pakistan wants ACT hockey matches shifted from India to neutral venue

Pakistan has formally requested the Asian Hockey Federation to move its Asian Champions Trophy matches to a neutral venue, citing the sensitive bilateral situation with host India and security concerns for its players and officials.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 9:17 pm

Gukesh, Sarin Lead India To Win At Chess Olympiad Opener

The Indian men's chess team, led by D Gukesh, Nihal Sarin, and Vidit Gujrathi, secured a 3-1 victory over Thailand in their opening match at the 46th World Chess Olympiad, despite Arjun Erigaisi's unexpected loss. The Indian women's team achieved a commanding 4-0 win against the Dominican Republic, with Koneru Humpy, R Vaishali, Vantika Agrawal, and B Savitha Shri all registering wins.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 9:14 pm

Pakistan Wants Neutral Venue For Asian Champions Trophy

Pakistan has formally requested the Asian Hockey Federation to move its Asian Champions Trophy matches from India to a neutral venue, citing a sensitive bilateral situation and security concerns. The tournament is scheduled for October 27 to November 5 in Mohali and Jalandhar. This request follows earlier claims of Pakistan's participation and past withdrawals from events in India.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 8:59 pm

Asian Champions Trophy: Pakistan Seeks Neutral Venue for All Matches, Wants Event Moved From India

Pakistan have asked the Asian Hockey Federation to either move the 2026 Men's Asian Champions Trophy from India or to arrange for all Pakistan matches to take place at a neutral venue, sparking a new diplomatic row over the event. The

Oneindia 16 Sep 2026 8:33 pm

Finisher's Medal Launched For Delhi Half Marathon

The Delhi Half Marathon, a World Athletics Gold Label Race, has unveiled its Finisher's Medal for its 21st edition. The event, scheduled for October 18, will see thousands of runners participate, celebrating fitness and community spirit in the capital.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 7:04 pm

Will IPL Scrap Impact Player Rule? BCCI Seeks More Feedback; IPL 2027 Auction To Be Held In Country

The future of the Impact Player rule remains uncertain ahead of IPL 2027, with the BCCI choosing to delay a final decision after discussing the matter at the latest IPL Governing Council meeting. The rule, introduced in the IPL in 2023,

Oneindia 16 Sep 2026 6:36 pm

Pakistan Hockey Team Needs Government Nod For India Tournament

The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) has stated that the national team is yet to receive government clearance to participate in the men's Asian Champions Trophy in India, refuting claims of confirmed participation. The PHF official highlighted the mandatory government approval and past visa issues as hurdles.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 6:31 pm

Joshi Leads Nava Raipur Open After Bogey-Free Round

Khalin Joshi has extended his lead to two shots at the inaugural Rs 1 crore Nava Raipur Open after a bogey-free four-under 30 in the second round. The Bengaluru golfer now stands at nine-under 59, showcasing consistent ball-striking despite challenging weather conditions that shortened rounds to nine holes.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 6:23 pm

PTF President Aisam Ul Haq Qureshi To Compete In Asian Games

Aisam ul Haq Qureshi, President of the Pakistan Tennis Federation, has announced he will compete as a doubles player in the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. The 46-year-old, a former US Open finalist, will balance his presidential duties with playing, aiming to contribute to Pakistan's team which features a mix of experienced and young talent.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 6:22 pm

Red Lightning and Pure Soul please

The Hindu 16 Sep 2026 6:13 pm

BFI Policy: Asian Games Medals Key For LA 2028 Boxing

The Boxing Federation of India (BFI) has announced its comprehensive selection policy for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The policy outlines a four-stage qualification pathway, with medallists from the 2026 Asian Games directly qualifying for the 2027 World Boxing Championships, which serves as the first Olympic qualifier.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 5:34 pm

7 stars to watch as Asian Games action begins in Japan

The Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, are set to feature top athletes across various disciplines. This preview highlights key contenders like swimmers Pan Zhanle, javelin throwers Haruka Kitaguchi and Arshad Nadeem, badminton star An Se-young, gymnastic sensation Carlos Yulo, tennis prodigy Alexandra Eala, and the formidable Indian cricket teams, all poised to make a significant impact.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 4:58 pm

Philippines' World No 18 Eala To Play At Asian Games Despite China Open Clash

The Philippines Tennis Association has requested a WTA exemption for Alexandra Eala to participate in the Asian Games, which clashes with the mandatory China Open.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 4:48 pm

Real Madrid's Mbappe, Vinicius cover message of support for Ceuta

Real Madrid has defended its players' right to hold differing opinions after Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. obscured a solidarity message for the people of Ceuta on their shirts before a LaLiga match, an act that sparked controversy.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 4:38 pm

Youri Tielemans explains reason for joining Manchester United; Ben White reflects on Arsenal's unbeaten run

Manchester United midfielder Youri Tielemans has outlined his ambitions at the club ahead of the teams Premier League meeting with Fulham. He joined the Red Devils this summer after a successful spell with Aston Villa, where he registered four assists in 25 appearances last year. He was terrific for Belgium in the FIFA World Cup as well, which in a way paved the way for his move to Man United.

India TV 16 Sep 2026 4:38 pm

China's young guns face Japan test at Asian Games

China's dominant table tennis team is preparing for the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, bringing a mix of Olympic champions and young debutants. They are wary of the host nation Japan, particularly in the women's game, while also focusing on developing talent for the 2028 Olympics.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 3:44 pm

Visually Impaired Shooting To Be Introduced By TOPGUN

TOPGUN Shooting Academy is set to launch Vision Impaired (VI) Shooting across its branches in India. This initiative aims to make the sport accessible to visually impaired individuals, utilising sound-based technology for target aiming, and is recognised by World Shooting Para Sport (WSPS).

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 3:30 pm

Hooda's Asian Games Return: A Quest For Lost Glory

Indian boxer Parveen Hooda is set to compete in the Asian Games, aiming to win a medal after her previous bronze was revoked due to a WADA suspension for whereabouts failures. Her comeback journey has been marked by significant challenges, including changing weight categories multiple times, overcoming injuries, and adapting her training to a new division. Hooda is determined to prove herself and achieve a podium finish, viewing it as unfinished business.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 3:26 pm

Asian Games: Indian Athletes' Check-In Not Hassle-Free

Indian athletes, including wushu and table tennis players, faced initial check-in difficulties upon arrival for the Asian Games in Nagoya. While some wushu players and coaches reportedly had issues with room allocation on the designated cruise ship, officials stated the problems were resolved. The Games' accommodation plan involves a mix of cruise ships, container rooms, and hotels, with some contingents already raising concerns about the quality and availability of lodging.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 3:19 pm

Tennis and military service: Korea's players face tough choice

South Korean male professional tennis players face a unique challenge: mandatory military service, which interrupts their careers for 18 months. This article explores how players like Seong-chan Hong, Hyeon Chung, and Soonwoo Kwon adapt to this obligation, with some earning exemptions through sporting achievements while others navigate a return to the professional circuit after their service.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 2:02 pm

Para Shooters Bring Home Gold And Silver From World Championships

Indian para shooters Millie Shah, Mona Agarwal, and Avani Lekhara secured a gold medal in the R2 women's 10m air rifle standing SH1 team event at the Changwon 2026 WSPS Para Shooting World Championships. The men's team also won silver, and individual medals were claimed by Mona Agarwal (silver) and Avani Lekhara (bronze), significantly boosting India's medal tally.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 1:37 pm

Dhiraj's World Cup Gold Lifts Indian Archery Spirits

India's first Archery World Cup Final male gold-medallist, Dhiraj Bommadevara, has inspired the national team ahead of the Asian Games. Dola Banerjee, India's first World Cup Final gold-medallist, believes his triumph will boost confidence and help the team surpass its previous medal haul, despite a new-look squad.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 12:33 pm

Dhakshineswar Suresh Details Pro Tennis Tour Challenges

Indian tennis player Dhakshineswar Suresh discusses the significant transition from collegiate tennis to the professional tour, highlighting the challenges of travelling alone, managing his body, and maintaining consistency. He shares insights on the importance of off-court preparation, physical fitness, and setting ambitious goals like breaking into the top 250.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 11:25 am

Sharath Kamal Confident On Asian Games Accommodation, TT Medals

India's deputy chef-de-mission, A Sharath Kamal, has downplayed concerns regarding the unique container room and cruise ship accommodation for athletes at the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya. He stated that Indian athletes have been prepared for these arrangements through mock setups at SAI centres. Kamal also expressed confidence in India's table tennis team, predicting at least one medal, specifically highlighting the men's doubles and mixed doubles pairs.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 10:32 am

Asian Games: Vijay Kumar's Blueprint For Shooting Success

Olympic silver medallist Vijay Kumar has urged the 30-member Indian shooting contingent for the Asian Games to prioritise individual medals over team events. He also highlighted the need for significant improvements in coaching, advocating for more former international medallists in the system, and stressed the importance of better grassroots talent identification, drawing comparisons with China. Kumar also commented on the void left by coach Jaspal Rana's death and questioned recent selection policies.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 10:18 am

Lionel Messi picked for Argentina squad despite announcing international retirement: What exactly happened?

Lionel Messi has been recalled to Argentina squad for their friendly against Benin on October 6. The star footballer announced his international retirement last month , with the FIFA World Cup 2026 final being considered his last assignment with the national team. However, he has now been picked again as Argentina organise a farewell match for one of their greatest ever.

India TV 16 Sep 2026 10:13 am

James Rodriguez says goodbye to Colombia after 14 years

Colombian football icon James Rodriguez has announced his retirement from international football, concluding a career that saw him earn 131 caps, score 31 goals, and lead his country to the 2014 World Cup quarter-finals. He expressed gratitude for the honour of representing Colombia and reflected on his achievements, including winning the Golden Boot at the 2014 World Cup.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 10:07 am

Messi to wear Argentina shirt one final time in ...

Lionel Messi has been called up by Argentina for a farewell appearance in a home friendly on October 6 against Benin, following his international retirement. Argentina will play three home friendlies in total, with the squad list also announced.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 9:13 am

Why Haaland's Winning Goal Stood Despite Offside Blunder In Manchester Derby

Pro Ref chief Howard Webb confirmed that VAR officials Matt Donohue and Blake Antrobus were stood down after 'tunnel vision' led to the incorrect awarding of Erling Haaland's goal in the Manchester derby, acknowledging the error to Manchester United.

Rediff 16 Sep 2026 1:09 am

Hyrox amends rules after athlete soils herself mid-race

Global indoor fitness race organisation Hyrox has changed its rules after women's World record holder Joanna Wietrzyk soiled herself during an event in Beijing but was allowed to continue and win the race, prompting an apology from co-founder Moritz Fuerste.

Rediff 15 Sep 2026 11:43 pm

Hockey India row deepens as Tirkey blocks key meeting

Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey has denied sanctioning an emergent Executive Committee Meeting called by secretary Bhola Nath Singh, intensifying an internal power struggle. The dispute stems from a jersey colour change controversy and the secretary's attempt to address various issues, including the Hockey India League's future and upcoming elections, which Tirkey claims is beyond his authority to convene.

Rediff 15 Sep 2026 11:16 pm

HI Leadership Clash: Tirkey And Bhola Nath At Odds Over Meeting

Hockey India is embroiled in a significant internal dispute between President Dilip Tirkey and Secretary Bhola Nath Singh, primarily over a controversial jersey colour change and the authority to call emergent meetings. An upcoming Executive Board meeting aims to address these differences, discuss the future of the Hockey India League (HIL) including its restructuring into a joint venture, finalise election dates, and deliberate on hosting Asian Champions Trophy events.

Rediff 15 Sep 2026 9:23 pm

India Chess Team Faces Olympiad Hotel Delay

Defending champions India experienced significant organisational issues upon arrival in Samarkand for the Chess Olympiad, with players facing a five-hour delay in hotel room allotment. This caused frustration among players and coaches, though organisers assured the situation was being resolved.

Rediff 15 Sep 2026 8:47 pm

Samarkand Chess Olympiad preview | India has the ability to repeat Budapest heroics

The 46thedition of the biggest team event in chess starts in Samarkand on Wednesday, with 208 nations participating in the open section and 191 in the womens; the tournament, to be played over 11 rounds in the Swiss system, concludes on September 27

The Hindu 15 Sep 2026 8:38 pm

PT Usha Unveils New IOA Awards For Asian Games Athletes

Indian Olympic Association president PT Usha announced the institution of two new memorial awards: the Raja Randhir Singh Trophy for the best male athlete and the Jaspal Rana Trophy for the best female athlete at the Asian Games. These awards honour the significant contributions of the late sports administrator Raja Randhir Singh and renowned pistol coach Jaspal Rana to Indian sports. Usha also addressed accommodation concerns for Indian athletes at the upcoming Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.

Rediff 15 Sep 2026 8:28 pm

India Eyes Historic Double Gold Defence At Chess Olympiad

India's men's and women's chess teams are set to defend their respective Chess Olympiad titles, with strong lineups featuring world champion D Gukesh and in-form R Praggnanandhaa for the men, and Koneru Humpy leading the top-seeded women's squad.

Rediff 15 Sep 2026 7:12 pm

Indian Rally Duo's Strong Showing In World Rally Championship

Indian rally champions Dean Mascarenhas and co-driver Gagan Karumbaiah concluded their South American World Rally Championship campaign with a top-eight finish in Chile and a stage victory in Paraguay, showcasing their skill on challenging gravel tracks.

Rediff 15 Sep 2026 6:50 pm

Chhattisgarh's Sporting Leap: From Naxalism To Golf Destination

Chhattisgarh is rapidly emerging as a significant sports destination in India, driven by state government initiatives to host major events and develop infrastructure. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai highlighted the state's commitment to sports, exemplified by the DP World PGTI Nava Raipur Open 2026 golf championship, inaugurated with cricket legend Kapil Dev. These efforts aim to foster talent, promote sports tourism, and transform the state's image, including positive changes in regions like Bastar.

Rediff 15 Sep 2026 6:45 pm