India’s men’s and women’s hockey teams will return to their traditional blue jerseys at the 2026 Asian Games after wearing saffron and white kits during the recent World Cups. The decision brings back a colour that has been closely associated with Indian hockey for decades.
Hockey India Brings Back the Traditional Blue Jersey
The decision to restore blue comes after considerable discussion and criticism surrounding the switch to saffron. India has predominantly played in blue since making its Olympic debut in 1928, making the colour an important part of the team’s sporting identity.
Blue Chosen as the Primary Jersey Colour
Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey confirmed that blue will be the primary jersey colour for the Asian Games, while saffron will remain among the available alternatives. He also stressed that jersey colours are not necessarily permanent and can change depending on requirements.
Why Was the Saffron Jersey Introduced?
The saffron kit used during the World Cups was reportedly considered partly because of visibility concerns. With blue jerseys potentially blending with the blue playing surface, saffron was viewed as a way to make it easier for players to identify their teammates.
Jersey Change Creates Controversy
The move away from blue sparked criticism from several former players and hockey supporters. The issue also created disagreements within Hockey India over how the jersey decision had been handled.
Questions Raised About the Decision-Making Process
Hockey India had stated that players were consulted before the change. However, several players later told The Indian Express that they were not aware of or involved in the process. Turkey also said he had not been properly consulted before the saffron kit was introduced.
Dilip Tirkey Calls for Better Process
Tirkey argued that the issue was about more than just the colour of a jersey. He raised questions about the authority behind the decision, consultation with stakeholders and whether the organisation’s internal procedures had been followed correctly.
India Looks Ahead to the Asian Games
With the blue jersey returning, both Indian hockey teams will head into the 2026 Asian Games with a familiar look. The decision is also likely to satisfy supporters who associate the traditional blue kit strongly with Indian hockey.
Focus Now Shifts to Performance
The jersey debate comes after contrasting World Cup campaigns. India’s women finished fifth, their best World Cup result in more than five decades, while the men’s team finished eighth.
A Fresh Start in Blue
The return to blue gives Indian hockey a chance to move beyond the recent controversy and focus on the Asian Games. For players and fans, the familiar colour will once again represent India on the international hockey stage.