South Africa Rugby Shirts

The national rugby side of the Republic of South Africa, nicknamed the Springboks, are at present the dominating force in international rugby union sitting comfortably at the top of the world ranking stakes after their successful world cup run in France last year. The team, who’s roots extend back to 1891 with the first squad formation and international matches taking place during a tour of the British Isles team of the same year. Competing in two major competitions, including the World Cup as well as the Tri-nations played against the respected sides of Australia and New Zealand, with who they share one of the sport’s greatest rivalries. Their success as contenders in these tournaments is varying, with them residing in last spot statistically in the Tri-Nations but with astounding success within the World Cup with two titles under their belt, an achievement which the all blacks are yet to make. Their Rugby World Cup inclusive began in time for the 1995 event, which they hosted to coincide with the abolishment of apartheid which during they were banned from competing in all international sporting contests. Beating defending holders Australia in the opening game, the hosts who hold a considerable home advantage due to the altitude at which their home games are played at later went on to beat arch-rivals the all blacks in an extra time final clash to win the title with a drop goal from 40 meters out.

Like many other national rugby sides the Springboks do not have a ‘home ground’, instead they play at different venues throughout the country. The most impressive of these venues, the 60,000 seated Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg  was the venue for the 1995 world cup final and featured heavily throughout the tournament. Other ground which South Africa frequently play at include the ABSA Stadium in Durban, the EPRUF Stadium in Port Elizabeth and the Newlands Stadium Cape Town.

Where to buy South Africa rugby shirts and gear?

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		www.kitbag.co.uk	UK & Europe	Clothes		View Prices
		www.lovellrugby.co.uk	UK & Europe	Full Range		View Prices

Team Jersey:

The Springboks play in a green and yellow strip, with these colours being taken directly from the flag of South African. On the right side of the shirt, located on the chest, is the national emblem of the team – an antelope, or springbok as they are named in Afrikaans. Manufactured by New Zealand sports apparel company Canterbury, the shirt also comes in an away version which is white in colour.

Team Record:

South Africa, like the other two contenders to the annual Tri-Nations tournament, are a clear peg or two above the rest of the rugby world with an overall win rate of 64%. Add to this two World Cup wins and a currently unrivalled position at the top of the world rankings and their record speaks for itself. Although with the likes of sporting heavyweights New Zealand and Australia snapping at their heals for their share of this dominance they may struggle to extend and build on this record at the top of the sport.