Hartpury College RFC will begin life in the Championship kitted out in a brand new XBlades strip after fans were given a sneak preview during a recent pre-season game.

The Gloucestershire side have officially launched their new kit as part of a deal with sportswear brand XBlades. The company will also be supplying clothing to all Hartpury students and staff as part of the agreement.

The team wore the red and black home strip for the first time during their recent pre-season game against Worcester Warriors. The home strip will be complemented by a predominantly black reverse design for the away kit. Supporters are able to purchase replica versions of the home shirt.

Hartpury Director of Rugby John Barnes, said: “The new kits are really smart, XBlades have done a great job with them and all the boys can’t wait to pull them on for the first game of the season. Declan Dunn Hartpury Account Manager of XBlades Sports UK said “We are delighted with the Hartpury RFC Home Kit for the upcoming season, it looked great when the RFC team got a run out in the new kit against Worcester Warriors over the weekend.

“We have had a hugely positive response from players and coaches alike to the on and off-field kit during the first year of our partnership which we hope will be replicated in the views of the supporters.”

The replica home shirt can be bought from the Hartpury shop at www.hartpuryshop.com