Wales launch new dual kit after squad feedback on period anxiety

Wales’ national teams will wear differing kits next season for the first time following consultation with the women’s squad over period anxiety.

Captain Hannah Jones’ side will wear the traditional red shirt but with red shorts and white socks, while the men will wear red shirts, white shorts and red socks.

Wales have also opted to return to a white alternate jersey – which last featured in the 2004-05 season – to align with rugby’s efforts to avoid kit clashes that limit the viewing experience for supporters with colour vision deficiency.

The first outing for the new home kit will be when Wales women face Australia at Rodney Parade, Newport, in their second WXV2 warm-up match on Friday, 20 September.

Jones and her team-mates will also be the first to wear the alternate kit in their first WXV2 warm-up match away to Scotland on Friday, 6 September.

“Wearing the red jersey is always a proud and special moment, knowing you are representing the nation, our families and friends, the players who have gone before and the Welsh supporters,” centre Jones said.

“Being the first national side to wear the new kit for our Test matches against Scotland and Australia in September, ahead of WXV2 in South Africa, is an honour and an exciting prospect.”

Wales men will wear the white and green alternate kit for the first time on Saturday, 23 November when they face South Africa in the third and final match of the Autumn Nations Series at Principality Stadium.

Warren Gatland’s side begin their autumn campaign against Fiji on Sunday, 10 November, then face Australia on Sunday, 17 November.

Hooker Dewi Lake, who captained the Wales senior men’s side on their recent tour of Australia, said: “Every time you put on the red jersey it’s an incredibly proud and special moment.

“Playing for your country is a feeling like no other and it’s always an honour to pull the jersey on.

“I know the boys will be excited to get back out at Principality Stadium this autumn and give everything for our fans, our families and friends.”