India Hockey Captain Harmanpreet Singh Addresses Saffron Jersey Debate

Harmanpreet said there was no controversy over the change and that the decision was taken collectively by the team and coaching staff with a focus on improving performance.

Hockey India recently introduced a new playing kit for both the men’s and women’s teams, replacing the traditional blue jerseys with saffron-coloured ones for the upcoming international tournament. The decision attracted criticism from some former players and sparked debate over the change in the team’s traditional colours.

Defending the move, Hockey India said the new jersey was designed after discussions with players and support staff. The governing body stated that the colour and design were chosen to represent India’s pride, with saffron symbolising courage, sacrifice and victory. It also clarified that no external pressure influenced the decision.

Speaking to RevSportz, Harmanpreet Singh said the team was not focusing on discussions surrounding the jersey and remained committed to preparing for the major tournament. He said the new kit had practical benefits, as players found it easier to identify each other and coordinate better during matches.

“There is no issue. We are not paying attention to talks regarding this. We are focusing on what we should,” Harmanpreet said, adding that the team had already played a match wearing the new jersey and found it useful on the field. He urged fans to support the team rather than focus on the controversy.

Hockey India also pointed out that changes in the national team’s jersey colours have happened in the past due to functional and design requirements. The organisation cited examples from previous FIH World Cups, including the use of yellow in 2014 and sky blue in 2018, while stating that the current saffron jersey was introduced based on technical feedback and its symbolic connection with India’s national identity.