New Delhi: Indian hockey star Manpreet Singh has broken his silence on the controversy surrounding the national team’s new saffron and orange jersey, saying the decision was made collectively by players and team management and had no political influence.
The two time Olympic medallist said the change from India’s iconic blue jersey was primarily based on practical considerations ahead of the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup. According to Manpreet, the blue playing kit created visibility challenges on modern blue synthetic turfs, making it harder for players to be clearly distinguished during matches.
He explained that the team wanted to avoid the visual clash between the blue turf, blue socks and the traditional blue jersey, which prompted discussions over adopting a contrasting colour.
Manpreet also rejected suggestions that the jersey change was linked to any external political narrative, insisting that it was an internal decision taken after consultations between the coaching staff, management and players.
Recalling previous tournaments, he pointed out that the Indian men’s team had worn yellow jerseys during the 2014 FIH World Cup and the Commonwealth Games, showing that changes in the national kit are not unprecedented.
The midfielder further said the saffron and orange colour carries symbolic significance because it forms part of the Indian national flag. He believes wearing the new jersey can inspire the team and strengthen the sense of representing the country on the international stage.
Hockey India has also maintained that the new kit was introduced for technical reasons, stating that improved colour contrast will enhance player visibility for athletes, officials and spectators during matches played on blue artificial surfaces.
The Indian team is expected to debut the saffron and orange jersey during the 2026 FIH Hockey World Cup, where it will aim to build on its recent success on the global stage.
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