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As I browsed through the rugby news this morning, I stumbled upon something that seemed like blasphemy.
The sky blue-and-white hoops of the Argentina jersey, donned by the Pumas since at least the 1960s, had been replaced by something else.
A predominantly white jersey with blue shoulders.
I can’t help but think this move was entirely the fault of Nike, rather than the UAR.
How can a team so passionate be willing to throw away decades of history, pride and heritage in favour of a jersey that appears to resemble the Uruguay team more than the Pumas?
I’d be willing to put money on the players’ disdain of the jersey.
The opinions of Argentina fans online confirmed my belief that the jersey is also wildly unpopular among the fans.
Would Agustin Pichot, in his passion-fuelled and fervent 2007 World Cup speech that began with “this is more than a jersey!”, approve of this new move?
I’d assume not.
What Nike has done is completely spit in the face of tradition.
Then again, we’re not exactly unacquainted with Nike’s ways.
The 2011 black England jersey sparked much controversy and was viewed as some as Nike’s attack on Adidas, the manufacturers of the All Blacks jersey.
Unfortunately, we’ve come to the point where the decisions of large corporate sponsors and manufacturers are the be-all and end-all.
If the players don’t get a say, why would the fans?
We’ve also had the lime green of the Highlanders and the Bulls’ pink away jersey.
Honestly who makes these decisions?
The yellow, blue and maroon represent the provinces of North Otago, Otago and Southland.
What does lime green represent?
The Bulls’ pink jersey looks more like something worn by the lead singer of a 1980’s glam metal band.
The All Black of New Zealand has been around since the early 1900s and is nothing short of a legacy.
It is a jersey that is respected and steeped in tradition.
Now, imagine if it was thrown out in favour of black-and-white hoops, or a green-and-gold jersey?
There would probably be riots.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.