World Cup First, Controversy Later: Sreejesh's Strong Advice to Indian Hockey Team

Indian hockey legend P R Sreejesh has urged the national men's team to block out the ongoing jersey controversy and concentrate on ending the country's 50-year wait for an FIH Hockey World Cup medal at next month's tournament in the Netherlands and Belgium.

The two-time Olympic bronze medallist said debates surrounding the team's new saffron primary jersey should not overshadow India's preparations for its biggest challenge of the year. According to Sreejesh, jersey colours have changed during previous World Cups as well, making the current uproar difficult to understand.

While he questioned the explanation that blue jerseys reduce visibility on blue turfs, the former goalkeeper said the issue becomes irrelevant if the players themselves have approved the decision. He stressed that players' comfort and confidence must remain the top priority.

Sreejesh also insisted that politics should stay away from sport, adding that outside opinions should not distract a team preparing for a global event. He noted that Hockey India would have followed the required approval process and that India could always wear its alternate white kit against teams with similar colours.

The 38-year-old, however, felt the transition to a new primary jersey could have been introduced earlier, allowing players adequate time to adapt. Familiarity with teammates in traditional blue, he said, develops naturally over years of competition and changing colours just before a World Cup may require a brief adjustment.

Despite the off-field debate, Sreejesh expressed confidence that the squad would remain focused. He recalled how Indian teams have traditionally learned to shut out external distractions and concentrate solely on performances when tournaments begin.

Looking ahead, Sreejesh believes India has a genuine opportunity to reach the semifinals, particularly if it tops its pool. With England viewed as the toughest group-stage opponent, he feels a favourable knockout path could boost India's medal hopes.

His final message was simple yet emphatic: forget the controversy, enjoy the hockey, embrace the opportunity and bring home a long-awaited World Cup medal.