ICC World T20: Colour-coordinated Indian cricket team bleeds only blue
The Indian team is learnt to be unhappy with the colour of the practice kit and has complained to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about it. Over the years the Indian cricket team is being kitted by the BCCI’s official apparel sponsor Nike. The sportswear giant, alongwith the board decide on the colour of the Indian team jerseys, which has mainly been shades of blue or black. (Full Coverage|| Fixtures||Photos)
But many of the players were surprised to find they have been given grey shorts and tracksuits to wear during the practice sessions in Kolkata in the run-up to the T20 World Cup. The players were quick to point out the anomaly to the team management which in turn informed the board about the reservations about the colour grey.
The replacement arrived a day before India played their final warm-up game against South Africa at the Wankhede Stadium. The grey replaced by blue.
PHOTOS: How India’s jersey has changed over the years
Confirming the development a top BCCI official told The Indian Express that last week the board received a complaint from the Indian team management wherein they wanted the colour of their practice gear changed.
“Many players felt it was a very awkward colour where their T-shirt was blue and the lower half was in grey. Player just didn’t like the colour. The matter was addressed and the players were given new clothing later on. The players wanted blue or black shorts and track pants as their practice kit and it was done,” a source said.
However, even the new set seems to be giving some players a bit of a bother. Many are not happy with the size of the jersey and there are also issues regarding the fittings.
PHOTOS: India feel fresh in new jersey
When contacted, a Nike spokesperson replied in an email that the BCCI, Nike and Team India collectively determine what the team wears during every tournament.
“Nike is the official apparel sponsor of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Since 2005, Nike has been bringing in cutting edge global innovations in cricket apparel and footwear to help elevate player performance on pitch. BCCI, Nike and Team India collectively determine what the team wears during every tournament. Nike recently launched the T20 national team kit and we have received great response from the players, the BCCI and consumers,” Nike said in a statement.
