The BLACKCAPS today welcome back a cricketing classic - woollen cable knit jumpers and vests.
New Zealand Cricket, with the help of Canterbury of New Zealand, has developed the cable knits over the last few months and they make their debut in this week’s first ANZ Test v India at Eden Park.
BLACKCAPS manager Mike Sandle has been keen to return to the traditional jerseys for some time.
"In conjunction with the current group of players, we've tried to foster in the team a sense of tradition and where we come from. We do that with our capping ceremonies, where we like to get former players to speak to the team before Test matches, and by making sure we recognise individual and team records and milestones within the group. The current team has great respect for New Zealand Cricket's history, and is proud to be part of it.
"Talking to the team and some former players after I took the job, one thing that kept coming up was everyone missed the look and comfort of the old-school jerseys, and it became an ambition to return to the traditional jerseys. We've worked with Canterbury to make it happen - they look really smart and the boys are delighted with them," says Sandle.
The jerseys and vests are New Zealand made and a mix of wool and acrylic, for an ideal combination of warmth and the fit needed to play cricket. They will not be available for sale, as they are reserved for players who have earned Test caps.
