India hockey team ditches saffron kit, returns to traditional blue

Hockey India has decided to abandon the saffron-coloured kit that was introduced for the national team, reverting instead to the traditional blue uniform that has long been synonymous with Indian hockey.

The decision comes after significant pushback from hockey officials and veteran players who raised concerns about the colour change. The saffron hue, which appears on India's national flag, has become closely associated with the country's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, prompting criticism that the kit choice carried unintended political overtones.

Former players and administrators argued that the traditional blue jersey represents India's hockey heritage and is deeply rooted in the sport's identity within the country. The uniform has been worn by generations of Indian hockey athletes and holds considerable historical significance.

Hockey India's reversal of the kit decision reflects the organisation's responsiveness to stakeholder concerns and its commitment to maintaining the sport's traditional values. The return to blue is expected to be welcomed by the hockey community, which has long viewed the colour as an integral part of the sport's cultural legacy in India.

The national team is set to resume competition in the traditional blue kit in upcoming fixtures and tournaments.