'If visibility is reason, then blue jersey should never be worn again': Sreejesh
India's decision to adopt saffron as the primary kit for both the men's and women's teams at the upcoming Hockey World Cup has generated debate ahead of the tournament, which begins on August 15 in the Netherlands and Belgium. Several former India captains have criticised the change, and goalkeeper Sreejesh voiced scepticism about the reason given for abandoning blue.
The national sides will wear saffron jerseys as their main uniform at the World Cup, set to kick off on August 15 in the Netherlands and Belgium. The switch away from the traditional blue strip prompted reactions from ex-captains who questioned the move. Sreejesh said he has no problem with the jersey colour changing, but he challenged the explanation that blue kits are harder to spot on blue playing surfaces. "If visibility is reason, then blue jersey should never be worn again": Sreejesh.
Officials announced the kit alteration in the run-up to the tournament, and the choice of saffron became a focal point for debate among former players and observers. Those critics have been vocal about the symbolism and practicality of the change, arguing the alteration merits clear justification. Sreejesh's comments highlighted the tension between tradition and the factors cited by organisers.
Sreejesh framed his objection specifically around the visibility argument rather than the colour switch itself, saying he had no issue with a different hue being used by the teams. By calling into question the claim that blue uniforms blend into blue turfs, he redirected attention to the rationale behind the decision. His comment has been among the more prominent individual responses to the announcement.
Discussion around national colours and kit selection frequently resurfaces before major events, and the World Cup's proximity has intensified scrutiny from former internationals. The tournament will take place across venues in the Netherlands and Belgium, where the saffron primary kit will be on display for both Indian teams. Organisers and the hockey community are now fielding reactions while preparations continue.
The controversy is likely to remain part of the conversation until India takes the field at the World Cup on August 15. With opinions divided, the saffron jerseys will be a visible reminder of the debate whenever the teams play in the tournament venues in the Netherlands and Belgium.