RFU announce new England kit deal

The Rugby Football Union today announced that Canterbury will replace Nike as England's kit manufacturer for the next four years.

The RFU descibed the deal as "the largest kit partnership in the union's history" and it will see Canterbury supply all England national teams with playing and training wear beyond the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

After 15 years with Nike, England will join Scotland and South Africa in the Canterbury stable from September.

RFU chief commercial officer Sophie Goldschmidt said: "We are delighted about this new partnership with Canterbury.

"The brand is recognised by players and fans alike and its heritage in rugby is unrivalled.

"The excellent quality of playing apparel Canterbury is famed for will also ensure the England teams have the best technical kit available to assist them on and off the pitch.

"This new exciting partnership will allow the Rugby Football Union to further invest in the game."

Nike, in conjunction with England's coach Clive Woodward, spear-headed the development of tight-fitting rugby jerseys for the 2003 World Cup.

The RFU have been criticised in recent years for frequent kit changes and the use of red, purple, grey and black change kits.

The all black kit was particularly controversial during last year's World Cup in New Zealand.

England received a warning from tournament organisers after some shirt numbers peeled off during the opening game against Argentina.

PA