For the first time ever, Ireland's men's rugby team will have names on the back of their jerseys. The new jerseys, featuring the players' names and numbers, will be showcased during Ireland's opening World Cup warm-up game against Italy at Aviva Stadium this Saturday (Kick-off 8 pm).
Moreover, Ireland is set to face England at Aviva Stadium on Saturday, August 19, followed by the concluding match of the Bank of Ireland Nations Series against Samoa in Bayonne on Saturday, August 26.
Players' names will feature on the back of the Ireland Men's jerseys for the first time during the upcoming @bankofireland Nations Series 🟢#TeamOfUs
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) August 2, 2023
This new tradition of including names on jerseys aims to enhance player recognition among fans. Jessica Long, the IRFU Head of Commercial, commented on the matter, stating, "As we count down towards the opening game of the Bank of Ireland Nations Series this Saturday, we’re excited to announce that players’ names will be on our new Canterbury match kit for the first time during this Series.
"We hope this will help further engage new audiences by increasing player recognition," Long added.
The new kit is available for purchase at Elverys.ie for €95, and tickets are still available for Saturday's clash.
