The All Blacks jersey for the 2023 World Cup in France has been revealed - featuring the return of an old favourite.
The collar has made a comeback for the tournament, a more traditional feature reminiscent of All Blacks jerseys of yesteryear.
New Zealand will wear a collar at a World Cup for the first time since 1995, when they lost the final to South Africa at Ellis Park in a now-iconic match in rugby history, although this version is black rather than white.
NZ Rugby and adidas have showed off the new kit, designed by Frenchman Fey the Wolf, a Paris-based street-style designer, whose trademark is working in black.
The jersey has undergone rigorous testing by a group of All Blacks players, whose feedback was used to ensure the optimal blend of comfort and functionality.
It boasts ergonomic side panels for a tight fit, as well as extra compression around the upper body.
The design incorporates a pattern that combines the rounded edges found on fronds in France with the trademark silver fern in a nod to the host nation.
At the heart of the jersey is an emblem made up of 14 differently sized ferns, signifying the diversity and differing experience of the current squad.
Completing the emblem, the crest of the team acts as the 15th fern, with each facing inwards to create the "USO" mark - a Samoan term meaning 'brother' - in honour of the bond between the All Blacks.
"There is no more iconic jersey in sport, so it was an incredible privilege to be entrusted with re-imagining it for this moment," said designer Fey the Wolf.
"Central to my approach was to encapsulate what the fern means to New Zealanders of all backgrounds and, to help, I was lucky enough to spend time with members of the squad, which provided valuable insight.
"What stood out to me most is the sense of guardianship... that the jersey is never owned, but passed on to create a continuous line.
"This was a true jumping-off point when starting the creative process - and the responsibility I too carry."
All Blacks back Beauden Barrett says the jersey passes the two most critical tests, nailing both the comfort and style.
"It's nice and tight," said Barrett. "You feel quite strong in it and it looks great.
"It's well designed and it's been through a few tests to get to this point. Hopefully, there'll be no rips.
"I've seen the big boys have a few tussles in it. It's great and I can't wait to jump in it.
"There's a bit of heritage there, with the collars, and I quite like it."
The on-pitch jersey is made of 89 percent recycled polyesters, while the replica has been manufactured using continuous rolls of material containing Fey The Wolf's unique fern design - a process that means each replica jersey is slightly different.
The All Blacks open their World Cup campaign against France on September 9 (NZ time).
Join Newshub on July 9 for live updates of the All Blacks v Argentina Rugby Championship clash
