The Wallabies have announced they will implement the First Nations design within their new gold jersey.
The design, which is seen in Australia’s existing First Nations jersey designed by Kamilaroi/Gamilaraay artist Dennis Golding, will be incorporated into the playing numbers starting this weekend against South Africa at Cbus Super Stadium on the Gold Coast.
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It will mark the first time an Australian side will have both the coat of arms and a First Nations design in its primary playing strip.
Rugby Australia also announced the First Nations jersey, which was introduced in 2017, will be worn during their round five TRC clash against Argentina in Townsville on September 25.
The decision to implement the design in the numbers was a player-led decision according to Wallabies coach Dave Rennie, who believes it will further their connection to the culture.
“This jersey holds significance to every member of our team, and to have the First Nations artwork now on our primary jersey is something incredibly special," he said in a statement.
“It was the players who had been advocating for the idea of a permanent First Nations addition, and I’m pleased we’ve been able to come up with a solution with ASICS which will feature on the new-look jersey.
“We place a great deal of thought as to when and where we will wear it, and Townsville is an obvious choice – it boasts a strong First Nations community who we represent, and when we wear this jersey, we feel it will provide us with an even stronger connection with our people.
“As a squad, we pride ourselves on culture and inclusivity, and that’s what the First Nations jersey represents, and to now have it on both jerseys is something special for our Rugby community."
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“It’s a truly historic occasion to be able to announce the incorporation of the First Nations design on the team’s primary jersey," RA CEO Andy Marinos added.
“I’d also like to thank Mark Brunton and his team at ASICS for their support this year; from the new- look jersey to the inclusion of the First Nations design, we couldn’t ask for a more supportive partner.
“As a team and Rugby family, we pride ourselves on our values of inclusivity and teamwork, and now both of our jerseys will do this, in being inclusive of all Australians.”
“To wear the First Nations jersey in Townsville is also a momentous occasion. It will be our first match there, and with such a passionate First Nations community, we hope to make a real connection and forge strong bonds with that community.
“I’d encourage everyone if they haven’t already to take up a slice of the action, whether it’s Cbus Super Stadium this Sunday to watch the first-ever doubleheader in Tier One history, or up in Townsville to see the First Nations jersey on home soil - the 2021 eToro Rugby Championship is one not to miss."
