Hockey India chief Dilip Tirkey demands answers over unapproved jersey switch to saffron

Hockey India president and former national team captain Dilip Tirkey has formally sought an explanation from senior office-bearers and Executive Board members over the decision to change the Indian men's hockey team's traditional blue jersey to saffron for the upcoming FIH Hockey World Cup. In two separate emails sent on Friday, Tirkey stated that the move was implemented without being placed before the Executive Board or being brought to his notice.

The emails, which have been accessed by The Indian Express, direct officials to provide a detailed account of how the change was approved and by whom. Tirkey's intervention marks a significant escalation of the controversy, moving beyond public criticism and into an internal governance dispute within Hockey India.

The decision to replace the iconic blue kit with a saffron-coloured jersey for the World Cup has generated debate among players, fans, and cricket and hockey observers. Blue has been associated with Indian hockey for decades, including during India's Olympic bronze medal campaigns in 2020 and 2024. The shift to saffron, a colour with strong cultural and political connotations in India, has raised questions about the process and timing of such a major branding change.

Tirkey, a multiple-time Olympian and one of India's most respected hockey figures, is understood to have written to the chief executive officer, registrar, and other key functionaries. He has also sought details from the Executive Board members who may have been involved in or aware of the decision. The president's directive underscores his assertion that the change was neither discussed nor ratified through the proper channels.

The development comes at a sensitive time for Indian hockey, with the national team preparing for the World Cup, scheduled to be held in Bhubaneswar and Rourkela from August 2025. The team's preparation and morale are critical, and any administrative turbulence could have an impact on the squad's focus.

Hockey India, the governing body for field hockey in the country, is bound by its constitution to take major decisions through its Executive Board. By bypassing this process, the concerned officials may have violated internal norms, Tirkey's emails suggest. He has asked for a comprehensive explanation, including the rationale behind the colour change and the specific authority under which it was executed.

The exact timeline of the jersey decision remains unclear. However, the timing of Tirkey's emails indicates that he was unaware of the change until it became public. This raises serious questions about the transparency and communication within the organisation, especially when a matter of national representation is involved.

This is not the first time the national team's jersey has been a subject of debate. In the past, changes to the kit have been made after consultations with players and the technical committee. The current unilateral decision, if confirmed, would represent a departure from established practice.

Meanwhile, the players have refrained from commenting publicly on the issue, with the team's focus said to be on training and preparations. The coaching staff has not issued any statement either. The Board of Control for Hockey India, which works under the auspices of the International Hockey Federation (FIH), is likely to face scrutiny over how it handles this internal challenge.

Observers note that Tirkey's move is in line with his role as president to uphold the organisation's constitution and ensure accountability. His past as a player and his stature in the sport lend weight to his demand, and it remains to be seen how the Executive Board responds.

The controversy serves as a reminder that sports administration must adhere to democratic principles, even when decisions are made behind closed doors. For fans, the jersey is more than just apparel — it is a symbol of the team's identity. Whether the saffron kit remains or blue is restored, the process by which such decisions are made will be as important as the colour itself.

This is a developing story. Further details are awaited as the concerned officials prepare their responses.