Indian hockey team’s new jersey colour has sparked debate before the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026. Former captain Viren Rasquinha raised questions about the change. The tournament will begin next month in the Netherlands and Belgium. For this event, Hockey India selected saffron as the primary jersey colour. Earlier, India’s hockey team traditionally wore blue jerseys during international competitions. On July 27, Hockey India shared a video showing the new jersey design.
I must say that @TheHockeyIndia has done many good things for 🇮🇳 🏑. But this is embarrassing. The legacy & identity of the Indian team has always been BLUE. I wore the Blue jersey with pride for many years. Fans want to see our Indian team in blue. What is the logic of orange? https://t.co/apDnJkTld4
— Viren Rasquinha (@virenrasquinha) July 29, 2026
The post introduced India’s latest jersey and highlighted its meaning. Hockey India wrote that every stitch carries a story and every pattern reflects national pride.
The team will represent India at the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium and Netherlands 2026. The post also stated that the players are ready to bring pride to the country again.
Viren Rasquinha Calls The Change “Embarrassing”
Responding to Hockey India’s post, Viren Rasquinha shared his concerns about the new colour. He said Hockey India has done many good things for Indian hockey.
However, he called the jersey decision embarrassing. Rasquinha said India’s hockey identity always remained connected with blue.
He added that he proudly wore the blue jersey for many years. According to him, fans want to see the Indian team in blue colours.
Rasquinha questioned the reason behind choosing orange. He wrote, “What is the logic behind orange?”
Rasquinha described the shade as orange, while Hockey India’s video called it saffron. In Hindi, saffron is commonly known as Bhagwa colour.
Hockey India Explains Meaning Behind New Design
Hockey India explained the significance of the saffron colour in its video. The organisation said saffron represents courage, sacrifice, and victory. According to Hockey India, the colour takes inspiration from the Indian flag and the rising sun. It represents a new beginning for the team.
The organisation also explained the mandala pattern printed on the jersey. Hockey India described it as an inspiring design celebrating India’s cultural heritage.
Furthermore, Hockey India highlighted the blue shade visible on the jersey. The blue element draws inspiration from the Ashoka Chakra.
The organisation described it as a modern form of the Sudarshan Chakra. Hockey India said this symbol represents strength, unity, and speed.
