THE ALL BLACKS haven’t sprung any surprises with their new World Cup jersey, although they say it includes a “a subtle design change” that pays homage to The Originals.
The legendary Originals side lost just a single game on their 35-match tour of the UK, Ireland, France and the USA in 1905 and 1906.
That tour famously included a homecoming for All Blacks captain Dave Gallaher, a native of County Donegal who moved to New Zealand as a child. Unfortunately, the injured Ramelton man did not play in the All Blacks’ 15-0 win over Ireland in a Test match at Lansdowne Road on 25 November, 1905.
The tour continued south to Munster, where the All Blacks beat the province 33-0 at Market’s Field in Limerick.
The press release for the brand new All Blacks World Cup jersey says that “a patterned design across the shoulders and chest of the jersey was inspired by the famous leather yoke which adorned The Originals jersey.”
Adidas say the design was developed with input from Richie McCaw and the rest of the current All Blacks squad, as well as the management team.
“To wear a jersey with a design that represents the nation’s proud rugby heritage and reflects the team’s success since that iconic team of 1905-1906 is hugely significant to us,” said McCaw. “We’re ready to wear the Rugby World Cup jersey with pride.”
After extensive research involving techniques usually reserved for the aerospace industry, adidas say they have produced two jerseys: one for the forwards and one for the backs – both of which “replicate the movements of players’ skin.”
