League squads dressed to the Nines in

Traditional Maori designs took centre stage at the 2017 NRL Auckland Nines jersey reveal with both the Warriors and Brisbane Broncos unveiling their new strips in Sydney yesterday.

Players from all 16 NRL clubs assembled at NRL headquarters to model their new jerseys for the fourth edition of the short-form pre-season tournament to be held at Eden Park on February 4-5.

The Broncos have followed the Warriors’ lead in incorporating Maori designs in their Nines jersey, which is mint green.

The name of the jersey is “Kakahu Tu Taua” which translates as “battle garment”. The Broncos will wear the jersey at the Nines and also when they travel to face the Warriors at Mt Smart Stadium in May.

Kiwis internationals Alex Glenn and Jordan Kahu had a hand in the look of the jersey which was partly inspired by the Chiefs Super Rugby shirts that have also incorporated Maori designs.

“The Nines is all about having fun and that’s what we did with this jersey,” Glenn explained.

“We took the initiative to really focus on the New Zealand culture because playing in Auckland it’s got that feel to it. I’m definitely happy with the way it’s come out and we are over the moon with the final product.”

The pair consulted Ora Kihi, who previously designed the New Zealand Rugby League side’s Te Iwi Kiwi jersey, drawing on his knowledge and creative input.

“Knowing that we have a big fan base back home and having designs that are relevant to New Zealand culture is going to be a massive hit back there.”

Warriors captain Ryan Hoffman was on hand to show off the “Te Toka Tu Toa” jersey which features Maori

Ryan Hoffman, Warriors captain