England launches new Canterbury playing kits

The Rugby Football Union has unveiled today at Drybrook RFC the new England Rugby home and change kits, which will be worn by England’s Men and Women’s teams in both XVs and Sevens international programmes this season.
Made by Canterbury of New Zealand, the new home shirt combines the traditional styling that has been the mark of English rugby since 1871, together with the technical construction that Canterbury is known for to withstand the very toughest of tackles.
The shirt, as modeled by England captain Chris Robshaw demonstrates a ‘back-to-basics’ feel with an all-white design, complete with the iconic red rose emblem applied to the chest. To enhance the traditional look, the kit also features midnight blue socks, which return by popular demand for the first time since England’s summer tour of 2007.
The tradition of the presentation contrasts with the eye-catching new change kit, as modeled by women’s captain Katy McLean, which is styled in regal purple with gold detailing.
England will were their new kit for the first time on November 10 when Fiji travel to Twickenham for the opening autumn Test.
Canterbury’s partnership with the RFU also includes new home and change kits for the England Sevens team, modeled by Rob Vickerman, left, and Michaela Staniford, 2nd right, with an ultramodern reworking of the red rose emblem to allude to traditions, whilst also looking ahead to the growing popularity and bright future of the shortened game.