‘Absolutely terrible stash’ – Ireland’s Rugby World Cup jerseys officially unveiled
Peter O'Mahony and the Ireland Rugby World Cup jersey.
Ireland’s Rugby World Cup jerseys, supplied by Canterbury, have officially been unveiled, with the new kit failing to impress fans.
Canterbury have released the green home jersey along with the alternate white that will be worn at the World Cup.
Jersey details
The kit has been made from 100% recycled polyester, with Canterbury stating that it is ‘the most technologically advanced jersey’ the supplier has ever produced.
It also features VaopDri+ adaptive and quick-drying technology, a bonded, elastic and flatlocked collar for strength, laser-cut holes for breathability, silicone logos and curved form for comfort.
“The jersey is launched alongside Canterbury’s ‘We Go Together’ campaign, which calls on Irish fans around the world to unite in support of the Ireland team during the tournament,” an Irish Rugby statement read.
“Going beyond just the 80 minutes, the campaign looks at rugby’s connections to Irish culture and the power of the sport in creating unity, promoting self-expression and inspiring generations of fans.”
Ireland player and Canterbury Ambassador Mack Hansen said: “This is a huge year for the squad as we travel to France to represent the four provinces. The team have been training hard and we can’t wait to get back out onto the field in this new Canterbury jersey, with thousands of Irish fans behind us.”
Andy Farrell’s side could wear the alternate kit in the Pool B clash with South Africa.
Fans react to the Ireland Rugby World Cup jersey
The Irish Rugby socials gave fans a sneak peek of the jersey last month, which received backlash as Canterbury were criticised for the colour and ‘lazy’ design, as it looked eerily similar to the shirt worn at Japan’s 2019 Rugby World Cup.
The reaction to the official launch has been received with the same tone from fans.
A reply to the official Irish Rugby Twitter read: “Absolutely terrible stash lads looks like a 10 euro job in a Lanzarote market. 90% of transition year students could have done a far better job. How did we fall so far?!”
One fan was highly critical of the home jersey but saw some positives with the alternate returning to white.
“Why do the IRFU and Canterbury hate the Irish fans?! It looks like a t-shirt!! The only saving grace is that you’ve finally listened and put the alternate jersey back to white,” the tweet read.
A third reply was simply a picture of Listerine to criticise the colour of the home kit.
— Nuno Madeira do O (@NunoMadeiradoO) July 13, 2023
Another hilariously quipped: “Looks like an unlicensed team in the Jonah Lomu games.”
Looks like an unlicensed team in the Jonah Lomu games
— goodenoughgangrugby (@knockedon1) July 13, 2023
Not everyone was disappointed about the jersey, with one fan replying saying: “I quite like it. That’s the first kit I’ve seen this year that I’d say that about.”
But those kind of comments were few and far between.
“A very wishy-washy colour green, so disappointing. I’m glad I got the last one,” another reply read.
The jersey reveal ruined one fan’s week, tweeting: “I’m not being dramatic here when i say this kit has ruined my week.”
The jerseys as well as the training and supporter clothing, are now available on Canterbury.com and at Intersports Elverys, with the home Test jersey setting you back £105 and the home pro jersey costing £83.
READ MORE: All the 2023 Rugby World Cup jerseys as they are released