6 Sep 2011

Highlanders to use green strip for away games only

5:28 pm on 6 September 2011

The Highlanders rugby team has partially reversed plans to change its jersey colours.

There was a public outcry when the Dunedin-based franchise unveiled a lime green and blue playing jersey earlier this year to replace the traditional colours of blue, gold and maroon.

The new strip was worn against the Western Force in the final Super Rugby match at Carisbrook in Dunedin in May, but roundly criticised.

The campaign against the jersey reached Parliament when Labour MP Claire Curran was thrown out of the House for wearing the old version.

The Highlanders board says it has re-thought the move because of the negative response. Players will now wear blue, gold and maroon for home matches in 2012 Super Rugby season.

The board says the team will wear the green strip for away matches.

It says it believes the team still needs a fresher look from 2013 and will consult on the options.