India's Jersey Change for ICC World Cup 2019: A Retro Move with Modern Rules

In preparation for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 in Australia, the Indian cricket team has revisited its iconic retro 1992 World Cup kit. The team will now wear a dark blue jersey, reminiscent of the colors sported by the team in the historic 1992 edition, which marked the debut of colored clothing in the 50-over World Cup.

Iconic Jersey Resurrected

The dark-blue jersey is a significant piece of cricket history. In 1992, when India participated in the 50-over World Cup, it marked the first major tournament where teams wore colored kits. The jersey with colored stripes across the shoulders stands as a symbol of progress and modernity in cricket apparel, resonating with the team's rich heritage and fondness for their 1992 World Cup attire.

New Kit Sponsor and Jersey Variations

The change in jersey color is a result of a new kit sponsorship deal. A new sponsor has signed a three-year-long agreement with the Indian Cricket team, necessitating the team to wear a lighter blue jersey for nearly two decades. This decision reflects the evolving dynamics of team sponsorships and the importance of uniformity in the cricket world.

Rules Changing Jersey Colors

The shift in the team's jersey color is also due to a rule change by the International Cricket Council (ICC) that was inspired by football regulations. According to the rule, if the playing teams' jerseys are the same color, the "away" team must adopt alternate colors to distinguish them. Given that Afghanistan, India, Sri Lanka, and England all wear blue jerseys, the Indian team had to adapt to a mix of dark violet and orange to ensure they are distinguishable from the “away” teams.

Application of New Rules

The application of these rules varies depending on the team's home status. While England, a hosting country, does not need to change its jersey, India, as the "away" team, had to adapt. This demonstrates how international governing bodies aim to maintain fairness and visibility on the cricket field, while respecting the historical and modern significance of team uniforms.

Upcoming Games and Adjustments

India will continue wearing its original dark blue jersey for upcoming games unless they play against England. This demonstrates the dynamic nature of team uniforms and the importance of adhering to the ICC's rules to ensure an enjoyable and fair competition for all participants.

Overall, the change in jersey colors for the Indian cricket team reflects a beautiful blend of history, modern rules, and the evolving dynamics of team sponsorships. It is a reminder of the rich tradition of cricket and the importance of staying adaptive to changing regulations for a better viewing experience for fans worldwide.