THE British and Irish Lions jersey for their New Zealand tour next summer appears to have been leaked just hours before tonight’s official unveiling.
Kit makers Canterbury have attempted to keep the design secret – but a mix-up has reportedly seen the new jersey released in at least one shop.
The jersey has been dubbed ‘The Untouchable’ and is available to pre-order at £70, while an exact replica of the one Warren Gatland’s squad will wear will be available for around £120 in April.
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Uniquely, the jersey was transformed into a hologram and sent directly to 30 rugby fans on a limited edition mobile device a few days ago – along with a message about the jersey from Gatland.
The reasoning behind the hologram was that the shirt should be “untouchable” until players earn the right to wear it for real.
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Also, the new design is said to have “Since 1888” underneath the Lions crest rather than the traditional tour destination emblazoned upon it.
Despite it not being due for release until tonight, an image emerged on Twitter this afternoon of the new jersey already seemingly on sale.
Gatland will take his Lions squad to New Zealand next summer in search of their first victory there in 46 years.
He said: "If there are people who believe there's no chance of us winning there, then don't get on the plane. We've got to believe we can be successful."
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