The Indian men’s and women’s hockey teams will don saffron jerseys instead of their traditional blue kits at the FIH Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands next month. Hockey India (HI) said the change was driven by on-field visibility concerns.
The move drew criticism from former India captain Viren Rasquinha, who questioned the decision to move away from the iconic blue jersey. Responding to the concerns, Hockey India said the change followed consultations with players and the coaching staff.
“It was observed that the blue playing uniform tended to blend/merge with the blue synthetic playing surface, which is now the standard colour of international hockey pitches. This visual similarity affected on-field clarity and visibility for the players’, Hockey India said in a statement.
It added that players and coaches had suggested alternative colours, including yellow and saffron, before saffron was finalised.
Further, the federation said the new colour not only addresses the visibility issue but also reflects one of the colours of the national flag, symbolising courage, sacrifice and national pride.
Unveiling the new jersey on its social media pages, Hockey India said the design and colour of the jersey is meant to “tell a story” and carry “India’s pride” and was finalised after consultations with players and support staff.
The jersey also features mandala-inspired patterns celebrating India’s cultural heritage, while deep navy blue accents draw inspiration from the Ashoka Chakra, symbolising progress, peace and focus.
The chest graphic is a modern interpretation of the Sudarshan Chakra, representing strength, unity and momentum. Tricolour piping along the shoulders and sides has also been incorporated to reinforce national pride.
India will debut the new jersey at the FIH Hockey World Cup, scheduled to be held from August 15 to 30 in Belgium and the Netherlands.
(with agency input)
