Springbok jerseys over the years: Which was your favourite?
Take a look back at the evolution of the Springboks’ iconic jersey over the past three decades, with the look and feel changing over time.
The Springboks will soon hold their first alignment camp of the year, which will undoubtedly begin to build some anticipation for the team’s return to international action in July.
During this quieter period, though, we take a look back at some of the Springboks’ most memorable jerseys and how they have evolved over time.
SPRINGBOK JERSEYS: A LOOK BACK AT THE LAST THREE DECADES
2023 World Cup winners jersey
The Nike designers worked closely with the team to design a kit that reflects the history of the team and South African culture.
The classic ‘green and gold’ jersey has been reimagined to include a traditional collar with the underside of the collar giving a nod to the South African flag. As an acknowledgment of the team’s spirit, the phrase “Stronger Forever” was inscribed on the inside collar.
2021 British & Irish Lions series winners
The jersey retained the classic gold collar and featured an enlarged crest – much like on rugby jerseys of old – detailed by a 3D logo as seen on many Champions League football club kits.
It also carred the logo of MTN, who have been proud partners of the Springboks for several years now.
2019 World Cup winners
Shirt sponsor at that time, ASICS, delivered a stylish jersey that used 3D measurements to enable special fitting for the players. After over 10 samples with 30 fabrics, the rigorous lab-testing process produced a shirt with a modern look and feel, as well as technical advancements to give the Springboks a competitive edge.
The goal was to create a jersey which would help rather than hinder the Boks on their quest to become “unstoppable”. One could say that the end justifies the means, and Rassie Erasmus’ men looked increasingly comfortable as the tournament progressed, ultimately beating England 32-12 in the final.
2007 home
A key feature of this jersey was grips on the chest to help players hold onto the ball while running, while the golden jersey stitching gave it a unique look.
2003 World Cup
Although the Springboks didn’t achieve the result they hoped for at the 2003 World Cup, the jersey design did represent an interesting shift to more modern features.
Ditching the more common collared rugby jersey at that time, Nike released a modern tight-fitting round neck shirt.
1997-1998 invincibles
Nick Mallett’s 1997-1998 Springboks were almost unstoppable as they achieved a famous run of 17 consecutive Test victories.
Back with Nike as a sponsor, the jersey had all the ‘old school’ properties with a prominent colour and loose fitting style.
1995 World Cup triumph
The 1995 home jersey donned by the first South African team to participate in and win the Rugby World Cup will forever be etched in Springbok history.
It is still a collector’s item for many, not least for the fact it was also worn by the late great Nelson Mandela when he handed captain Francois Pienaar the Webb Ellis Cup following the Springboks’ heroic victory.
WHICH WAS YOUR FAVOURITE KIT AND PLEASE LET US KNOW OF ANY OTHERS TO ADD TO THE LIST?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211.
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