Indian teams to wear saffron at World Cup as Hockey India rebuts criticism

Indian hockey teams will don saffron jerseys instead of the customary blue for the World Cup, a change that Hockey India has defended amid public criticism. Former national team captain Viren Rasquinha questioned the switch, calling it 'embarrassing'.

The decision to alter the teams' match kit was announced in the lead-up to the World Cup and has attracted attention nationally. The alteration affects the official playing shirts that the Indian sides will wear during that tournament. Hockey India responded to objections raised after the switch was disclosed.

The move marks a departure from the deep blue that has long been associated with Indian hockey on the international stage. Officials framed the change as the teams’ chosen attire for their World Cup fixtures. The development has been recorded as part of the teams’ preparations for the event.

Hockey India publicly defended the selection of saffron as the teams’ World Cup uniform following the critical remarks. The governing body addressed the matter after comments were made questioning the choice. HI stood by its decision in statements issued after the debate surfaced.

Among those who voiced disapproval was Viren Rasquinha, who led the Indian national side during his playing career. Rasquinha directly criticised the change and described it as 'embarrassing'. His comment has been a focal point in coverage of the wardrobe alteration.

The jersey colour switch and the ensuing exchange between critics and Hockey India have become part of the wider conversation about the teams’ World Cup appearance. Hockey India’s defence and the criticism from figures such as Rasquinha remain on record as the squads move toward their scheduled matches.