Under Armour’s new change jersey has been made to the same high specification as the red kit unveiled recently and is complete with ‘dragon scale grippy’ and unique breathable material.
The jersey also carries the St David’s flag on the right sleeve and sports the word ‘Hiraeth’, meaning belonging, stitched into its collar.
A link across the centuries to the flag of St David, which represents the patron saint of Wales, has been forged with the black and gold design of the new kit. The flag which is a gold crescent on a black field is often flown on St David’s Day either alongside or as a replacement to the traditional and widely known Red Dragon flag.
The new Wales change shirt will now form a direct bond with the nation’s patron saint, who was a cleric from Pembrokeshire who died in around 590AD, and will be seen in action for the first time tonight.
“The responsibility to the jersey is a duty we are now instilling into the players who join the Wales team so the symbolism of these new colours is very important,” said Wales coach Warren Gatland.
“The players represent Wales around the world and they should be aware of the heritage of the nation and the part that rugby plays in that history. These days our players are elite, professional sportsmen, but the chance to represent Wales is still a powerful incentive for each and every one of them.”
“We hope this design will carry a special meaning to all the people of Wales,” said Under Armour President, Europe, Peter Mahrer. “We have worked hard to ensure our designs link closely with the history of this great nation and this particular shirt has a bond with one of the most famous Welshman of all time.”
