Hockey India Saffron Jersey: Some questions were raised on the 'saffron' jersey of the Indian hockey team, after which Hockey India clarified why this colour was chosen.
Hockey India breaks silence on 'saffron' jersey.
Hockey India Saffron Jersey Clarification: Hockey India has addressed the issue of the 'saffron' jersey color. Saffron was chosen as the jersey color for the Indian men's and women's teams for next month's Hockey World Cup 2026. Former Indian hockey team captain Viren Rasquinha had raised questions about this. Hockey India has now broken its silence and explained why this colour was chosen.
Why was saffron colour chosen instead of blue?
Issuing a statement regarding the colour of the jersey, Hockey India said, "We would like to inform you that the decision to change the colour of the jersey was taken based on the recommendations of the support staff and players and after extensive discussions with them."
It further read, "The initial consideration was technical. It was observed that the blue jerseys would blend in with the blue artificial playing surface, which is now the standard colour for international hockey fields. This visual similarity affected clarity and visibility for the players on the field."
Hockey India shared a video unveiling the jersey. The caption of the video read, "Presenting India's new jersey! Every stitch tells a story. Every pattern, every color embodies India's pride. Our teams are ready to bring glory to the country once again at the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium and Netherlands 2026."
What did the former captain say about the saffron colour?
On the saffron colour of the jersey, former captain Viren Rasquinha had written on social media, "I must say that Hockey India has done many good things for India, but this is shameful. The identity and heritage of the Indian team has always been the colour 'blue'. I have worn the blue jersey with pride for many years. Fans want to see our Indian team in blue. What is the logic behind the orange colour?"
