New Bok jersey revealed

South Africa's top players have pulled on the new-look Springbok jersey for the first time.

Springbok captain John Smit and host of other contracted Boks wore the jersey recently at the recording for an advertisement for the British & Irish Lions tour to South Africa - which starts next month.

The redesign sees the jumping springbok move to the right of the jersey, the sponsors' logos in the middle and the national sports emblem, the King Protea, on the left.

"We decided to be proactive rather than reactive and not wait for the promulgation of the pending National Colours act," said Andy Marinos, acting MD of SA Rugby.

"Our leaders met with government as we were fully aware that the King Protea is the national symbol and that it had to be properly incorporated into the Springbok jersey.

"Obviously modifying something that has such strong emotional symbolism as the Springbok jersey generates a lot of emotion, but team will still be known as the Springboks as we realise the importance and strength of the brand, both locally and abroad.

"Having seen the new jersey, we're actually very excited as it underlines the fact that we are the team of all the people of South Africa."