A Color Shift Sparks Debate
The Indian men's hockey team is set to make a striking visual change at the forthcoming FIH Hockey World Cup, swapping its traditional blue jerseys for a vibrant orange design.
The shift has drawn criticism from some observers who suggested a political motive behind the colour switch, but captain Harmanpreet Singh has pushed back, emphasizing that the decision was taken collectively by players and coaches.
Singh explained that the blue jerseys had been blending with the synthetic playing surface, making it difficult for teammates and opponents to track the ball, prompting the move to a colour that stands out on the pitch.
Hockey India, the sport's governing body in the country, backed the change, noting that orange is one of the hues of the Indian flag and carries connotations of courage and sacrifice, while also acknowledging that the idea emerged from discussions about alternative colours such as yellow and saffron.
The episode is not the first time equipment in hockey has evolved for practical reasons; the sport once transitioned from yellow to white balls to improve visibility, and players have long debated the merits of different gear.
Former India captain Viren Rasquinha has publicly questioned the rationale behind replacing the team's long‑standing blue strip, adding his voice to the ongoing conversation about tradition versus functional necessity.