VIDEO: Bok World Cup jersey unveiled
SPOTLIGHT: The jersey that the Springboks will be wearing at the World Cup in Japan has been revealed.
After more than 10 samples with 30 different fabrics, gruelling testing at the lab with the players the new jersey features the technological advancements to hopefully give them the edge in Japan with their own unique characteristics, features and story to compliment the playing styles and technical requirements of the Springboks.
After interviewing the players, the strongest voice was the comment from the players that they don't want to be restricted by anything and want to feel "Unstoppable".
Key features of the new jersey:
* Durable iconic collar
* Fabric is lighter and thinner
* Grip print for ball catching and carrying
* Stretch material feature to provide the anti-grab and easy escape
* Stretch side panel & under arm gusset strategically placed for the mobility of arms
* Side seam for strong binding
* Special pattern for players based on 3D measurement and fitting
"I don't want to be restricted by anything when playing," veteran prop Tendai Mtawarira said.
"The jersey is the excellent balance between fast and strong - and it's challenging to reach that. This jersey not only meets, but surpasses expectations of what we wear on the pitch."
Jurie Roux, CEO of SA Rugby, said this is a "momentous" year, as the Springboks aim to win our third World Cup in Japan.
"Every little detail counts and that includes all the focus and effort put into making this the most advanced jersey for the Boks to wear in Japan and support them in their quest to hit their goal," Roux said.
The Springboks' home jersey has a more traditional olive green and orange gold look that draws inspiration from the 1995 World Cup Springbok winning team.
As has been the case in the past, the iconic Springbok logo on the jersey will move to the left sleeve of the jersey to accommodate the official Rugby World Cup logo on the left breast.