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India Hockey Teams to Sport Saffron Jerseys at FIH World Cup, Move Sparks Debate
The federation said the new kit will improve visibility on blue turf and carries cultural motifs tied to India’s national identity.
- On Thursday, Hockey India announced the national men's and women's hockey teams will wear saffron jerseys instead of blue at next month's FIH World Cup in the Netherlands and Belgium.
- Hockey India defended the change, citing technical feedback that blue jerseys blend into blue synthetic turf, reducing visibility for spectators and broadcasters. Kit colours have historically shifted in past World Cups.
- The design features Mandala-inspired patterns celebrating cultural heritage and a Sudarshan Chakra symbolising "strength, unity, and momentum." Tricolour piping and "INDIA" in stylised Devanagari script reinforce national pride.
- Former captain Viren Rasquinha, CEO of Olympic Gold Quest, questioned the decision on 'X', writing that the blue jersey represents the team's "legacy & identity" and asking "What is the logic of orange?".
- Teams will use an alternate white jersey featuring the same design for the FIH World Cup running from August 15 to 30. The federation stated the saffron kit reflects new beginnings inspired by the national flag.
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35 Articles
Hockey India Jersey Color change row: The Indian hockey team's jersey color was suddenly changed from blue to saffron before the World Cup, which has sparked controversy.
·India
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"Blue Jersey Has Become Identity Of Indian Hockey": Dhanraj Pillay
Hockey India has maintained that the decision was taken considering both the technical feedback received from the coaches and players and the symbolic value associated with the colour being part of the National Flag.
·New Delhi, India
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources35
Leaning Left6Leaning Right11Center2Last UpdatedBias Distribution58% Right
Bias Distribution
- 58% of the sources lean Right
58% Right
L 32%
R 58%
Factuality
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