Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey has questioned the process behind the decision to change the colour of the Indian hockey team’s jersey, saying it was implemented without the knowledge of the federation’s elected leadership or Executive Board. He has also sought a detailed explanation from officials.
In an email addressed to the Hockey India Executive Board and accessed by Sportstar, Tirkey wrote that he wanted to “bring to your attention the recent change in the color of the Indian national team’s jersey,” adding that the decision “appears to have been taken and implemented without being placed before the Executive Board for discussion and without my prior knowledge.”
Tirkey clarified that his objection was not to the new saffron colour itself but to the manner in which the decision was made. “My concern is not with the choice of saffron itself. However a decision of this significance involving the identity and representation of the national team should ideally have been discussed with the elected leadership and the Executive Board before implementation.”
Tirkey also referred to the controversy that followed the announcement, saying the matter had attracted widespread attention. “The matter has attracted significant media attention and unfortunately political interpretation in certain quarters. With the World Cup approaching I have publicly clarified that the change was a purely sporting decision so that the focus remains on the team and its preparations.”
Tirkey further revealed that the Odisha government had sought an explanation over the issue. “I have also been asked by the Government of Odisha to provide clarification regarding this matter. I therefore request the concerned Hockey India officials to provide me with a written clarification at the earliest outlining the basis for the decision, the process followed and the circumstances under which the change was approved and implemented. This will enable me to respond appropriately and accurately.”
Calling for greater transparency in the federation’s functioning, Tirkey said major decisions affecting the national team should be taken collectively. “More importantly, this matter highlights the need to ensure that significant decisions concerning the national team are brought before the elected leadership and Executive Board for due consultation and collective consideration.”
In a separate communication to Hockey India Executive Director Commander Srivastava, Tirkey directed that a detailed note on the jersey change be circulated to all Executive Board members by 5 pm on July 31.
The note, Tirkey said, should explain:
“The background and rationale for changing the traditional color of the Indian national team jersey.”
“The authority under which the decision was taken.”
“The process followed in arriving at the decision including the officers, committees or other persons involved.”
“Whether any consultation was undertaken with the President, the Executive Board, current players, coaches, former international players or other relevant stakeholders.”
Published on Jul 31, 2026
