India’s Hockey jersey change sparks debate ahead of World Cup
New Delhi: Hockey India’s decision to replace the Indian men’s team’s iconic blue jersey with a saffron kit ahead of next month’s FIH Hockey World Cup has sparked a debate among former players, officials and fans. While the federation has described the move as a technical decision aimed at improving visibility on the field, the change has received both support and criticism.
For decades, India’s men’s hockey team has been identified with the blue jersey, making the decision one of the biggest talking points ahead of the World Cup. While writing on X, former India captain Viren Rasquinha criticised the move, saying the blue jersey had always been part of the team’s identity and questioning the logic behind switching to saffron.
Hockey India explains reason
In an official statement, Hockey India said the decision followed recommendations from players and support staff after detailed consultations. According to the federation, the blue jersey often blended with the blue synthetic turf which has been the standard playing surface in international hockey since 2012, making it harder for players to distinguish teammates during matches.
Presenting the new India jersey! 🇮🇳
Every stitch tells a story. Every pattern, every colour carries India’s pride.
Our teams are ready to once again do the country proud at the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium & Netherlands 2026.
🎥: Select 2 (SD+HD)+ Khel & JioHotstar
🗓️: August… pic.twitter.com/8GvwbByapq— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) July 27, 2026
The federation added that saffron was chosen not only for better visibility but also because it is one of the colours of the Indian national flag, symbolising courage, sacrifice and national pride.
Mixed reactions from hockey fraternity
The explanation, however, failed to convince everyone as the two-time Olympic medallist and former India captain Ajit Pal Singh questioned the timing of the decision, pointing out that India had won Olympic bronze medals in Tokyo and Paris while wearing the traditional blue kit.
Though the current captain Harmanpreet Singh, while speaking during a media interaction, backed the change, saying the team had already trained in the saffron jersey and that it looked good.
As India prepares for the upcoming FIH Hockey World Cup, the jersey debate is expected to take a back seat once the action begins. Under Harmanpreet Singh’s leadership, the team will aim to turn the attention back towards its performance on the field and make the new saffron kit a symbol of a successful campaign.