The Indian hockey team’s new saffron jersey for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 has become one of the biggest talking points ahead of the tournament.
Hockey India recently unveiled the new kit, replacing the traditional blue jersey that has long been associated with the national team.
While Hockey India has explained that the change was made to improve player visibility on blue synthetic pitches, the decision has triggered widespread debate. Former players have spoken about the team’s identity and legacy, while others have linked the colour change to politics.
Interestingly, this is not the first time an Indian national team has worn a saffron jersey. The Indian cricket team also used a similar kit during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019.
India cricket team also wore a saffron jersey
The Indian cricket team wore a special away jersey during its 2019 World Cup league match against England at Edgbaston.
The jersey featured a dark blue front, while the back and sleeves were saffron. It was introduced because both India and England traditionally wore blue kits, and the away jersey helped avoid a colour clash. Even at that time, the jersey sparked discussions among fans and experts over its design and colour.
Rohit Sharma scored a century in orange jersey
Although India lost the match by 31 runs, Rohit Sharma produced one of the finest innings of the tournament.
The star opener scored 102 runs, registering another World Cup century. He eventually finished as the highest run-scorer of the 2019 World Cup, amassing 648 runs in nine matches at an average of 81.00, including a record five centuries in a single edition.
India’s 2019 World Cup ended in heartbreak
Despite dominating the league stage and finishing top of the points table with 15 points, India’s campaign ended in disappointment.
The Men in Blue suffered an 18-run defeat to New Zealand in the semi-final while chasing 240 runs. The loss remains one of the most painful moments in Indian cricket history and is still remembered by fans.
Why is hockey team wearing saffron jersey?
Hockey India has clarified that the decision to introduce the saffron jersey was based primarily on technical reasons.
According to the governing body, the traditional blue jersey blended with the blue synthetic turf used at international venues, making it difficult for players to distinguish teammates during matches.
After consultations with players and support staff, saffron was selected because it improves visibility and is also one of the colours of the Indian national flag.
India’s challenge at hockey World Cup 2026
The FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 will be jointly hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands. India has been placed in Pool D alongside England, Pakistan and Wales.
India’s group-stage fixtures are:
- August 15: India vs Wales
- August 17: India vs England
- August 19: India vs Pakistan
The Indian men’s hockey team won its only Hockey World Cup title in 1975. Since then, it has not reached the semi-finals. After finishing ninth at the 2023 World Cup, the team will be hoping for a much stronger campaign in 2026.
While the saffron jersey continues to generate debate, the focus for the players will remain on delivering a strong performance and ending India’s long wait for another Hockey World Cup title.