From the electrifying victory of the Indian cricket team in the recent T20 series to the rising star power of young badminton sensations, India's sporting landscape is ablaze with action! This week alone saw record-breaking performances in the Pro Kabaddi League, showcasing the nation's unwavering passion for indigenous sports. The upcoming Asian Games are generating immense anticipation, with athletes across disciplines sharpening their skills and aiming for glory on the international stage. We delve into the crucial role of sports sponsorships in nurturing talent and boosting India's sporting infrastructure. Furthermore, debates rage on about the future of cricket's dominance in India's sporting ecosystem, with other sports like hockey and football vying for increased attention and investment. Stay updated on all the latest scores, match analyses, and exclusive interviews with your favorite athletes. Explore the dynamic world of Indian sports—from the bustling stadiums to the quiet dedication of rising stars—right here. Discover the stories that shape the nation’s sporting spirit and witness the unfolding drama of the sporting year.
Kochi (Kerala), Mar 31 (UNI) The wait of 10 years and two days for the Kerala faithful will come to an end when the Blue Tigers take on Hong Kong, China, in their last Group D clash of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Final Round at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium here on Tuesday, at 19:00 IST. On March 29, 2016, a Sandesh Jhingan header had put India ahead against Turkmenistan, but the visitors responded with a couple of second-half goals to take the win in Kaloor. A meagre crowd of just over 3,000 people had turned up on that night, but a lot more will be expected to throng the JLN on Tuesday when the Blue Tigers return to town. It may have been a decade since India last played in Kochi, but what was the last time India won a game there? Never. That's a piece of history Khalid Jamil's men will be out to write. During the 1980s, 1990s and the early 2000s, India played against many giants of not just Asian but world football in the Nehru Cup in Kochi. Teams like Italy, Hungary, Morocco, Uruguay, Algeria, Iceland, Korea Republic, Uzbekistan, Ghana, Iraq, and China have graced this football-crazy city. But India could not register a win against any. Tuesday could be a day of many firsts. A first Blue Tigers win in Kochi in 18 attempts, a first win for India in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, and a first home win for Khalid Jamil since taking over as head coach last August. India may be out of the reckoning for a place in the next Asian Cup, but the message in the camp is clear -- finish strong, stay focused, and deliver at home. Speaking ahead of the clash during the pre-match press conference, head coach Khalid Jamil underlined the importance of the occasion. "This is a very important match for us," he said. "We must not take it lightly. We are ready for this game, and we need your support, especially this time. "We should not think too much about the past. Even though we are out, we want to finish on a good note." Hong Kong arrive with a relatively new setup, different from the Ashley Westwood-led side that snatched a last-minute penalty winner against India in the reverse fixture in Kowloon last year. Roberto Losada was named head coach last December, and this will be his first official match in charge of Hong Kong. However, India are not looking to overanalyse the opposition. "They have done well. They have a new coach. We don't have too much information about them. So we must focus on our own game. That will be best for us," Jamil said. Sharing his excitement about the national team playing in Kochi after 10 years, Jamil said, "We are very happy to be here. Kerala has produced many good players. It's always a great feeling to play here." Forward Edmund Lalrindika, who accompanied Jamil in the press conference, echoed that sentiment. "Tomorrow, we will be playing in Kerala, which is one of the homes of football in India," said the 26-year-old. "I'm really excited. Hopefully, with the support of our fans, we can get a good result." India have spent the past week in camp building towards this fixture, with a renewed focus on cohesion, regrouping four months after the last international break. "The team has been preparing well," Lalrindika said. "Everyone is ready. We are focused and prepared to fight for a good result. The coach understands the players well. He is demanding but also gives us freedom. Everyone supports each other. We are ready to fight for our country," the East Bengal FC player added. India have scored two goals in five games during this qualifying campaign. Addressing the scoring concern, Jamil said, "We are aware of our problem. But we have to work with the players available. Now, we have players like Rahim (Ali), Manvir (Singh), Edmund (Lalrindika), Farukh (Choudhary), and (Ryan) Williams. We need to find the right combination for that position. "Player selection is based on recent performances in the ISL. Those who are doing well for their clubs get the call-up to the national team," Jamil added. Hong Kong arrived in India on Friday, and have held three training sessions in Kochi. In the pre-match press conference, head coach Roberto Losada said, "We arrived here a few days ago, and we are very happy to be here. Everything has been very smooth since our arrival, and everyone has taken great care of us. Hopefully, everyone can watch a good game and enjoy a great atmosphere with both teams." Sharing his thoughts on the home side, Losada added, "We have followed India throughout the qualification campaign. We have seen the players they have used and the changes under the new coach. We have some information, but just like them, we don't know exactly what to expect." Hong Kong winger Sun Ming Him, who plays for Chinese side Tianjin Jinmen Tiger, said, "It is our first match under the new interim coach, and naturally, it has been a bit challenging because we have had limited time to adapt to a new system. The facilities here in Kochi are excellent. The food, the training ground, and the hotel have all been very good. We feel comfortable, and it has helped us prepare well for the match." The game will be streamed live on FanCode.
Mumbai, Jan 31 (SocialNews.XYZ) Troubles mounted for former champions Mumbai City FC as they were held to a goalless draw against East Bengal FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 at the Mumbai Football Arena here on Friday night. The Islanders played their seventh draw of the season and are positioned sixth with 28 points from 18 matches, as they were unable to find a breakthrough despite holding 62.4% of the possession in this match. This was East Bengal FC's 100th match in the ISL and they have now moved to 10th in the table with 18 points from as many games as a consequence of this ...Read More >
Kerala Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman on Saturday asserted that Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, will visit the state as announced by the government earlier, and that the sponsor has paid the match fee for the event. He said the World Cup winner is likely to come in October or November this year, and they would be treated as state guests. The government would meet their security, accommodation and other facilities. The news would come as a fresh ray of hope for football fans in one of India's surviving football hubs. Earlier, several media reports had claimed that Argentina's scheduled visit ...Read More >
Ahmedabad, June 8 (SocialNews.XYZ) The MSC IRINA, recognised as the world's largest container ship by TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit) capacity, is set to dock at the Adani Group's Vizhinjam International Seaport on Monday and will be berthed till Tuesday. The monumental arrival marks a significant milestone for the seaport, which was dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 2. The MSC IRINA boasts an impressive capacity of 24,346 TEUs, making it a formidable player in global shipping. With a length of 399.9 metres and a width of 61.3 metres, the vessel is approximate ...Read More >
Shillong, July 7: Football fever is set to grip Shillong once again as the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium gears up to host Group E matches of the 134th edition of the prestigious Durand Cup. Local favourites Shillong Lajong FC will kick off their campaign on July 26 against the Foreign Services Team, marking the city's return as a key venue in India's oldest football tournament. Adding further excitement to the local calendar, Shillong will witness a high-voltage derby clash between city rivals Shillong Lajong FC and Rangdajied United FC on July 29 -- a match expected to draw massive local support ...Read More >
Mumbai, July 11: Indian football, already reeling because of poor results and the plunging ranking of the senior men's team, landed in further turmoil on Friday with the organisers of the Indian Super League putting the 2025-26 edition on hold because of delay in renewal of its contract with the All India Football Federation (AIFF). Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), the IMG Reliance subsidiary that organises the Indian Super League (ISL), has put the upcoming 2025-26 season of ISL on hold because of the stalled negotiations over extending its deal with the All-India Football Federati ...Read More >
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], January 31 (ANI): Mumbai City FC were held to a goalless draw against East Bengal FC at the Mumbai Football Arena in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 on Friday. It was East Bengal FC's 100th match in the ISL and they have now moved to 10th in the table with 18 points from as many games as a consequence of this result, as stated in a release from ISL. The Islanders, on the other hand, played their seventh draw of the season and are positioned sixth with 28 points from 18 matches, as they were unable to find a breakthrough despite holding 62.4% of the possess ...Read More >
Thiruvananthapuram, June 7 (UNI) Amid swirling speculation over the possible cancellation of an exhibition match involving global football icon Lionel Messi, Kerala Sports Minister V Abdurahiman on Saturday reaffirmed that the much-anticipated event is very much on. "World Champion Argentina football team will visit Kerala," the minister said in a social media post, adding that Messi -- fondly known as King Leo -- is confirmed to participate in the match. His clarification comes in the wake of reports suggesting uncertainty around the event, prompting concern among fans and stakeholders. The ...Read More >
New Delhi, July 2 (SocialNews.XYZ) The All India Football Federation have mutually parted ways with national team head coach Manolo Marquez after his tenure saw India fall down to 127 in FIFA rankings. The AIFF executive committee met on Wednesday and approved the decision as per reports. His exit follows after AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey had confirmed that Marquez's tenure will be under review at the said meeting. Despite a poor run of results, concerns finally arose after India's poor start to the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers as the men in blue played out a draw against Bangladesh in the ope ...Read More >
Mumbai, July 11 (SocialNews.XYZ) Indian football, already reeling because of poor results and the plunging ranking of the senior men's team, landed in further turmoil on Friday with the organisers of the Indian Super League putting the 2025-26 edition on hold because of delay in renewal of its contract with the All India Football Federation (AIFF). Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL), the IMG Reliance subsidiary that organises the Indian Super League (ISL), has put the upcoming 2025-26 season of ISL on hold because of the stalled negotiations over extending its deal with the All-India ...Read More >
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], December 11 (ANI): Launched to bring the excitement of street cricket to a professional platform and showcase the country's cricketing talent, the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) became an instant success during its inaugural season earlier this year. According to a press release, the league's second season is scheduled to be held in Mumbai from January 26 to February 15, 2025. "Indian Street Premier League is a great platform for India's cricket talent, and the inaugural season highlighted the immense potential of this tournament. ISPL not only created oppor ...Read More >
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], January 31 (ANI): Mumbai City FC were held to a goalless draw against East Bengal FC at the Mumbai Football Arena in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 on Friday. It was East Bengal FC's 100th match in the ISL and they have now moved to 10th in the table with 18 points from as many games as a consequence of this result, as stated in a release from ISL. Also Read | Why Did Harshit Rana Bowling in IND vs ENG 4th T20I 2025 Despite Not Featuring in India's Playing XI? Know Reason. The Islanders, on the other hand, played their seventh draw of the season and are ...Read More >
Mumbai, Jan 31 (VOICE) Troubles mounted for former champions Mumbai City FC as they were held to a goalless draw against East Bengal FC in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2024-25 at the Mumbai Football Arena here on Friday night. The Islanders played their seventh draw of the season and are positioned sixth with 28 points from 18 matches, as they were unable to find a breakthrough despite holding 62.4% of the possession in this match.This was East Bengal FC's 100th match in the ISL and they have now moved to 10th in the table with 18 points from as many games as a consequence of this result. Ea ...Read More >
Kolkata: Another win for Mohun Bagan Super Giant, another small step towards the league shield of the Indian Super League (ISL). But viewed in conjunction with where the rest are, the 3-0 win through Liston Colaco's goal between a Jamie Maclaren brace could prove to be a giant stride on way to being the first to retain the shield. With four rounds to spare, Mohun Bagan have booked a play-off berth. They have played nine at home this term and won them all. After 20 matches, Mohun Bagan have 46 points, 12 ahead of Jamshedpur FC, who have two games in hand. Dogged in their resistance till the ha ...Read More >
Kowloon (Hong Kong), June 8 (UNI) India and Hong Kong, China's meeting on Matchday 2 of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Final Round on June 10 is billed as the highest-stakes clash of Group C as they are the top two ranked sides in the four-team group, and are aiming for the first win of their campaign. Placed in Pot 1 for the qualifiers, India, ranked 127th, got off to a slow start with a draw against Bangladesh in March. Meanwhile, Pot 2 side Hong Kong, ranked 153, could also only manage a point in Singapore, meaning there is still nothing to separate the four sides after th ...Read More >
Imphal, July 10: Manipur Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla on Thursday highlighted the state's legacy as a powerhouse of sports and emphasised the importance of youth engagement through such tournaments. The Governor, while addressing the trophy showcase Ceremony of the 134th Edition Durand Cup 2025 held at City Convention Centre in Imphal, commended the Indian Army's consistent role in promoting sports and national integration. He expressed confidence that the Durand Cup would inspire a new generation of young athletes in the region. Bhalla, former Union Home Secretary, further stated that hosting ...Read More >
Mumbai, Jan 31 (PTI) Mumbai City FC were held to a goalless draw by East Bengal FC in the Indian Super League here on Friday. East Bengal have moved to 10th in table with 18 points from as many games as a consequence of this result. The Islanders, on the other hand, played their seventh draw of the season and are positioned sixth with 28 points from 18 matches, as they were unable to find a breakthrough despite holding 62.4% of the possession in the game. East Bengal FC picked up pace earlier on as their entire frontline functioned in tandem to slice open the Mumbai City FC defence in the 1 ...Read More >
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], July 3 (ANI): FC Bengaluru United (FCBU), one of Karnataka's leading football clubs, has reappointed Nallappan Mohanraj as head coach, ahead of the club's preparations for the upcoming domestic season. A respected figure in Indian football, Mohanraj brings back his deep experience as both player and coach. He holds an AFC 'A' Diploma and has previously coached India's U-19, U-20, and U-23 teams, in addition to leading Tamil Nadu to a Santosh Trophy final round after an eight-year gap, as per a press release from FC Bengaluru United. Also Read | WI vs AUS 2nd Te ...Read More >
CHENNAI: Indian football has found itself in jeopardy, again. Football Sports Development Limited (FSDL) which manages India's premier football competition -- Indian Super League (ISL) -- has officially put the 2025-26 season on hold, citing uncertainty in the Master Rights Agreements (MRA) with the All India Football Federation (AIFF), which is set to expire at the end of the year. A letter addressed to clubs on Friday revealed that the FSDL is uncertain on holding the league beyond the agreement's expiration date - December 8 2025. "Given this situation, we regret to inform you (the ISL clu ...Read More >
Tura, July 12: The iconic Durand Cup trophy arrived in Tura on Friday as part of the ongoing roadshow for the 134th edition of Asia's oldest football tournament. The event, organised by the Indian Armed Forces in collaboration with the Government of Meghalaya, aimed to celebrate the tournament's rich legacy and boost excitement ahead of the matches. The roadshow commenced from the P.A. Sangma Stadium in Dakopgre and passed through key areas of the town including Nazing Bazar, Araimile, Tetengkol, Hawakhana, the offices of the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police, before culminati ...Read More >
Kolkata, July 13 (SocialNews.XYZ) East Bengal FC have completed the signing of Indian national team attacker Edmund Lalrindika from Inter Kashi FC on a three-year contract for an undisclosed transfer fee. He will wear jersey number 10. Returning to the Red & Gold Brigade after a five-year hiatus, Edmund previously represented East Bengal during the 2019-20 I-League season, on loan from Bengaluru FC. He showcased his potential with an assist on his debut in a Kolkata derby against Mohun Bagan on January 19, 2020. Unfortunately, an injury in the same game cut his stint short. Excited about his ...Read More >
Indian Football: Manolo Marquez has stepped down as head coach of the Indian men's football team, ending his tenure with the national side by mutual agreement with the All India Football Federation (AIFF). The decision was made official on Wednesday following an AIFF Executive Committee meeting held in New Delhi. Although Marquez still had a year left on his contract, he had expressed his desire to exit the role, prompting the federation to accept his request. "The AIFF and Manolo decided to mutually part ways without any financial implications to any of the two parties. So, he is relieved f ...Read More >
Kolkata, Jul 7 (PTI) East Bengal FC will face South United FC of Bengaluru in the opening match of the 134th edition of Durand Cup football tournament at the iconic Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan here on July 23. The final of the tournament, which will feature 43 matches across six cities, will be held on August 23. The 24 participating teams have been divided into six groups of four teams each. Each team will face the other three once in the group stage. Six group winners and two best second-placed teams will progress to the quarterfinals, which are set to be held on August 16 and 17. ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], July 11 (ANI): Indian Super League (ISL) side Kerala Blasters FC on Friday announced the departure of Spanish striker Jesus Jimenez by mutual consent. The Spanish striker had joined ahead of the 2024-25 season, tasked with replacing Golden Boot winner Dimitrios Diamantakos. Despite a tough campaign for the team, Jimenez hit the ground running and instantly made his mark. He found the back of the net in nine of his first 12 ISL matches, missing out on the scoresheet just three times during that period. Also Read | Italy National Cricket Team Players: Meet The Squad Which He ...Read More >
Jamshedpur, January 17: Stephen Eze's sensational solo goal helped Jamshedpur FC secure a 1-1 draw against league leaders Mohun Bagan SG in a fiercely contested Indian Super League (ISL) match at the JRD Tata Sports Complex on Friday. This marked Jamshedpur FC's first draw of the season, elevating them to second place on the points table with 28 points from 15 matches, while Mohun Bagan SG remains on top with 36 points from 16 matches. The highlight of the match came in the 60th minute when Eze came up with a fantastic run that culminated in a goal for Jamshedpur. The towering defender interc ...Read More >
Kolkata, Jul 7 (PTI) East Bengal FC will face South United FC of Bengaluru in the opening match of the 134th edition of Durand Cup football tournament at the iconic Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan here on July 23. The final of the tournament, which will feature 43 matches across six cities, will be held on August 23. Also Read | Highest Test Match Aggregates for Batter, From Shubman Gill to Wiaan Mulder; Check Full List. The 24 participating teams have been divided into six groups of four teams each. Each team will face the other three once in the group stage. Six group winners and two b ...Read More >
Chandigarh: Punjab chief ministerBhagwant Mann on Thursday said the government will table a bill in the assembly on Friday to introduce harsher punishment for religious sacrilege. However, the law will not be enacted immediately, as the government plans to hold consultations with stakeholders before finalising the legislation.Mann said the decision was taken in a meeting of the cabinet earlier in the day. After the legislation is tabled, Punjab govt will gather suggestions on the law from stakeholders, including religious organisations and people, he added.Sources said said the new legislation ...Read More >
New Delhi [India], July 17 (ANI): Indian Super League (ISL) side Chennaiyin FC (CFC) on Thursday announced that they have mutually parted ways with head coach Owen Coyle. Coyle leaves the club after a two-season tenure, having joined the club in 2023. Owen Coyle first took charge of Chennaiyin FC in the 2019-20 season, when he orchestrated a remarkable turnaround by lifting the club from the bottom half of the table to a dramatic run into the ISL final. Upon his return in 2023, Coyle once again made an immediate impact, guiding the team to the playoffs for the first time in four years. They ...Read More >
Panaji, Jul 11 (PTI) FC Goa and their captain Odei Onaindia have parted ways after a fruitful partnership, the Indian Super League (ISL) club announced on Friday. The 35-year-old Spanish centre-back has appeared in the vast majority of the club's ISL matches in 2024/2025. Also Read | India vs England Free Live Streaming Online, 3rd Test 2025 Day 2: How To Watch IND vs ENG Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Cricket Match Live Telecast on TV?. Known for his exceptional ability to read the game and composure under pressure, Onaindia joined the Gaurs ahead of the 2023-24 season, reuniting with head coac ...Read More >
Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], July 17 (ANI): The 134th Durand Cup Organizing Committee (DCOC) announced that the total cash prize money pool of this year tournament will increase three times to ₹3 Crore. The announcement was made during the trophy unveiling ceremony in Kolkata as the City of Joy geared up to host Asia oldest football tournament. Along with the winners and runners up, teams reaching the semi-finals and quarterfinals along with three individual awards will also receive a share of the prize pool, as per a release from Durand Cup. The three trophies of the Durand Cup were showca ...Read More >
Kolkata: The 134th Durand Cup Organizing Committee announced that the total cash prize money pool of this year's tournament will increase three times to Rs 3 crore. This year IndianOil Durand cup, oldest in Asia, will kick off on July 23 and will be played in five states-Assam, Meghalaya, Shillong, Bengal and Jharkhand. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee will be present at the grand finale on August 23. Lt Gen Mohit Malhotra AVSM, SM, Chief of Staff HQ Eastern Command and Chairman Durand Cup Organising Committee, said, "I am delighted to announce that this year the tournament has sign ...Read More >