Indian Hockey Teams Return to Traditional Blue Kits for Asian Games

The Indian hockey teams are set to return to their traditional blue jerseys for the upcoming Asian Games, marking a partial reversal of a recent kit experiment. While the team previously introduced a saffron-coloured strip, the national federation has confirmed that blue will once again serve as the primary choice for the players on the international stage.

The decision follows significant public discourse surrounding the change in attire, which had sparked allegations of politicisation and internal friction within Hockey India. Addressing the shift, Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey confirmed that the organisation had communicated its preference to the Indian Olympic Association, establishing blue as the first choice and designating saffron as the secondary option.

The formation of this investigative body comes approximately two months after the sports ministry directed the Indian Olympic Association to look into the claims. The committee is chaired by retired Justice Deepa Sharma and includes a diverse panel of experts to oversee the proceedings. Joining the chair are former India striker and 2002 Commonwealth Games gold medallist Mamta Kharab, former sprinter Vandana Rao, and Supreme Court advocate Sitwat Nabi.

The newly formed committee is scheduled to commence its work later this week, marking a significant step in addressing the formal complaints lodged against the federation official. The inquiry remains a separate development from the team's preparations for the Asian Games, where the focus remains on the squad's performance in their traditional colours.