Canterbury of New Zealand reveals special edition Ireland jersey for Chicago clash vs All Blacks

Thursday, 23 October 2025 at 10:14

byTom Sansom

Canterbury of New Zealand has unveiled a special edition Ireland Rugby Pre-Game jersey, designed to celebrate the team’s upcoming clash with New Zealand at Soldier Field, Chicago on 1 November.

The striking new design takes inspiration from one of Chicago’s most iconic traditions — the dyeing of the Chicago River bright green every St Patrick’s Day. The swirling “green water” pattern pays tribute to the city’s Irish heritage while capturing the energy of both Chicago and Irish rugby.

The Ireland Pre-Game Jersey for Chicago is available now through official retail partner Intersport Elverys and online at elverys.ie and Canterbury.com.

The limited-edition range comes in three styles:

Image Credit: Canterbury

All three jerseys combine performance innovation with standout design, ensuring they look as good off the pitch as they perform on it.

Ireland and British & Irish Lions prop Andrew Porter praised the new design, saying:

“Once again, Canterbury has created a jersey that will not only perform on the pitch but will also look fantastic off it. The special design on this shirt, reflecting the iconic dyed Chicago River, is a great way to celebrate Ireland’s match against New Zealand in Chicago.”

Simon Rowe, SVP of Canterbury of New Zealand, said the jersey represents a celebration of Ireland’s global rugby story:

“Following the incredible response to Ireland’s 2025/26 jersey that launched last month, we wanted to do something truly special for fans. This limited-edition Pre-Game jersey is a celebration of Ireland’s global connections and rugby heritage. Designed exclusively for the match against New Zealand in Chicago, it’s a rare piece of rugby history that fans will be excited to wear.”

Philip Staunton, Buying Director for Intersport Elverys, added:

“As the official retail partner of the IRFU kit, Intersport Elverys is proud to launch the new Chicago commemorative Jersey ahead of Ireland’s upcoming test against New Zealand. This jersey captures the anticipation and pride surrounding another major moment for the Ireland team on US soil. Irish fans have always travelled and supported in force, and we expect strong demand as supporters look to wear their colours for what will be a huge occasion for Irish rugby.”

Billy Murphy, Chairperson of the IRFU Commercial & Marketing Committee, said the jersey will unite fans both at Soldier Field and around the world:

“Canterbury has designed this unique jersey for ‘The Rematch’ at Soldier Field which Irish supporters, attending or supporting from around the globe, can wear with pride.”

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