PICTURES: Springboks' new-look RWC jerseys revealed!

Cape Town - ASICS has launched the jerseys that the Springboks will be wearing at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan alongside an all-new brand film ‘What is the difference?’ which offers an inside-look into the dedication, sacrifice and focus it requires for a professional rugby player to be selected to represent his country on the biggest stage that rugby has to offer.

After more than 10 samples with 30 different fabrics, gruelling testing at the lab with the players the new ASICS jerseys feature the technological advancements to 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”.

Based on this feedback and in-game analysis it motivated ASICS to create an unstoppable jersey by making the players aware of any loose fitting or unnecessary tightness of the apparel while playing.

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. The jersey is the excellent balance between fast and strong - and it’s challenging to reach that. ASICS has produced a jersey that not only meets but surpasses expectations of what we wear on the pitch,” said Springbok prop Tendai "Beast" Mtawarira.

“It’s a momentous year as the Springboks aim to win our third World Cup in Japan,” said Jurie Roux, CEO of SA Rugby.

“Every little detail counts and that includes all the focus and effort put in by ASICS into making this the most advanced jersey for the Boks to wear in Japan and support them in their quest to hit their goal.”

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 World Cup logo on the left breast.

Alistair Cameron, President and CEO of ASICS Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: “The launch of the new Springbok jersey is a chance for us to further expand brand awareness and exposure within the South African market, whilst continuing to support the Springboks in their quest to become the number one rugby side in the world on the biggest stage world rugby has to offer.”