Sports performance brand, ASICS, and Rugby Australia have today proudly unveiled the new Wallabies jersey for The British & Irish Lions Series next year, marking the first time in 12 years that Australia will host the prestigious event.
Current Wallabies, and Lions Series hopefuls, Allan Alaalatoa, Angus Bell, Max Jorgensen, Fraser McReight, Dylan Pietsch, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii showcased the jersey at this morning's event hosted at the iconic Bennelong Lawn.
In traditional Wallaby gold, the Series jersey, collaboratively designed by ASICS and Rugby Australia, will feature the First Nations Tour artwork created by proud Wiradjuri man and Wallaby number 978, Dylan Pietsch.
In addition to the inclusion of the First Nations artwork, the official series logo will appear on the sleeve, whilst the inner sleeve cuff will feature the First Nations place names of the event fixture locations.
Featured on the underarm and lower back, the First Nations Tour artwork, tells the story of connection of country through its people and landscapes, whilst also capturing the powerful ability of rugby to create new connections by uniting communities through a common purpose.
On speaking to the design, Dylan Pietsch said: "I am incredibly proud to be representing myself and my culture as part of this momentous series through the inclusion of my artwork across the tournament range.
"The centre of the artwork features a wallaby and a lion in a direct reference to the Lions Series. Their relationship is presented as a battle underpinned by respect. Respect for our game, and respect for one another."
Painted using the traditional technique of dots, the artwork features an array of distinct and intricate patterns that portray the natural landscapes of Australia with nods to Aboriginal Dreamtime stories.
Managing Director ASICS Oceania, Mark Brunton said: "ASICS believes in the power of sport and movement, and its unique ability to unite us as a community. We are incredibly proud of the inclusion of the First Nations Tour artwork on the Series jersey, and across many items in the replica and training range, bringing to life the important message of unity, community and connection in what is a pinnacle moment on the rugby calendar."
Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh said: "It's always special to see the hours of work come to life in a new Wallabies jersey, and this one carries some extra significance with the inclusion of Dylan's design as a current Wallaby and proud First Nations man. The British & Irish Lions Series is one of world sport's premier events and we hope this jersey will unite all Australians in supporting the Wallabies next year."
With a return to a traditional collar and placket front design, the match day jersey is crafted using sustainable materials. The newly developed lightweight jersey knit fabric from ASICS is specifically designed to ensure players benefit from its advanced ventilation for optimal match-day performance.
Further, the jersey has been designed with a panel-free construction to ensure maximum mobility for players across all facets of play. A debossed diamond texture has also been added for aesthetic purposes.
Wallaby number 896, Allan Alaalatoa said: "I'm incredibly excited about the possibility of wearing the Lions Series jersey, and to have one of our teammates design it is extremely special. Having had the opportunity to test the jersey as part of the campaign, I'm confident the new design will allow the team to perform at its best in what is an incredibly special Series in any player's career."
A selection of the Wallabies Lions Series Replica range will be available from today, with additional supporter merchandise to launch in May ahead of the tour.
To view the Lions Series replica range, please visit https://www.wallabyshop.com.au/.
