The Springboks have unveiled a special-edition jersey for their highly anticipated four-Test series against the All Blacks.

SA Rugby and Nike designed the kit exclusively for Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Tour.

The world champions will wear it for the first time when they face New Zealand at Ellis Park in Johannesburg on 22 August 2026.

The fixture will begin the first full Test series between the two rugby giants in 30 years.

The jersey will only be used during the tour and will not replace South Africa’s permanent playing kit.

National anthem shapes the design

The jersey features a subtle tone-on-tone graphic containing the words of South Africa’s national anthem, Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika.

The lyrics have been arranged in the shape of the South African flag.

All five languages used in the anthem are represented: Xhosa, Zulu, Sesotho, Afrikaans and English.

The design is intended to reflect the diversity and unity of the country represented by the Springboks.

SA Rugby chief executive Rian Oberholzer said the jersey captured the team’s motivation to play for the people of South Africa.

“They play for the people of South Africa and wear their hearts on their sleeve; now they will wear the words of the anthem on their chests,” he said.

Nike adds performance technology

The jersey was also created to meet the physical demands of international rugby.

Nike used its FIT ADV technology and lightweight materials to give players greater freedom of movement.

The athlete-focused fit was developed through testing aimed at balancing performance and comfort during high-intensity matches.

Four-Test rivalry tour awaits

The Springboks and All Blacks will meet in four Tests during the tour.

The opening game will take place at Ellis Park, followed by matches in Cape Town and at FNB Stadium.

The final Test is scheduled for Baltimore in the United States.

New Zealand’s wider tour also includes matches against South African provincial teams.

The limited-edition jersey will give the Springboks a distinctive look as they renew one of international rugby’s fiercest rivalries.