Charity to Benefit from Waratahs Jersey Trial

Lote Tuqiri models the new Waratahs jersey. Photo courtesy of the NSW Waratahs

The NSW Waratahs have agreed to a SANZAR demand to remove initials from the players’ jerseys for this year’s Tooheys New Super 14 competition.

However, NSW Rugby hasn’t ruled out using the system in non-broadcast matches in the future.

“We are clearly disappointed by this decision particularly as it was made before last weekend’s game,” said NSWRU Chief Executive Officer, Fraser Neill.

“It was certainly different but after a few minutes I and a lot of other supporters were hooked.

“But we’ve also had some feedback from our members who found the letters difficult to read so the size and colour may need tweaking.

“And we have no problem with that, as all we’ve ever asked for was an open mind going into the match.

“I’m really glad that our players and coaches had the courage to go through with the exercise,” added Mr Neill.

“The world didn’t implode and the curtains didn’t fade as a result of letters appearing on the backs of Waratahs.

“But at least in the meantime we can help out some seriously ill children.”

The jerseys will be auctioned off during the year with the proceeds going to the Sydney Children’s Hospital at Randwick and Westmead Children’s Hospital.”

NSW head coach Ewen McKenzie said the Waratahs would continue innovate in other ways.

“We’ve got to keep thinking about new ways to reinforce the changes in the way the game is played,” said McKenzie.

“I reviewed the game in some detail on video and I have to say I actually found it easier to identify the players.”

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