Canterbury replaces Nike as England rugby kit provider
New Zealand sportswear manufacturer Canterbury has signed a four-year deal with the Rugby Football Union (RFU) to become the official kit partner for the England team.
The deal is rumoured to be worth £20 million, and sees Canterbury replace previous supplier Nike. Canterbury will provide kits for the England senior team, the Saxons “B” team, the Sevens and Women’s teams, as well as all age grade representative teams from September 2012. The design of the new shirt is yet to be unveiled.
The brand has previously made the kits for several international rugby union teams, including New Zealand, Australia, and Ireland. It current provides the shirts for South Africa and Scotland.
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. This new exciting partnership will allow the RFU to further invest in the game.”
