A DECLARATION of pride for club and country, the traditional rugby jersey has long been the ultimate sportsman statement.

Inspired by vintage sports apparel and classic varsity style, lifestyle brand Superdry has collaborated with rugby legends Gloucester to launch a premium Rugby shirt collection for Cherry and White fans and players.

Despite their world recognition and critically acclaimed status, Superdry and Gloucester Rugby have stayed loyal to their roots. Superdry Co-Founder, Product & Brand Director Julian Dunkerton said: “Working with such a strong club is something that’s close to my heart and, given the big year for rugby in the UK, what better way to support a local organization than collaborating with Gloucester Rugby. Superdry specialises in premium sportswear so it made perfect sense.”

Inspired by the iconic styles of the 60s and 70s, the four-jersey collection has been designed with the rugby player in mind – sizing from XS to XXXL. Core Gloucester colours – cherry red, white and washed black – are paramount while premium coarse single jersey fabric pays homage to the iconic rugged look and feel of retro shirts.

Superdry’s passion for intricate detailing has been injected throughout; thick cotton twill tape collars, leather embossed labels, rubber buttons and rustic ink stamped branding feature throughout. Bold chalk-white numbers in Superdry’s trademark cracked print give a worn vintage appeal while felt appliqué lion embroidery pays homage to the Gloucestershire crest.

Since launching earlier this year, the Rugby by Superdry Collection has soared. Gloucester Rugby CEO, Stephen Vaughan, said: “As a renowned, credible global brand, Superdry offers an opportunity for Gloucester Rugby to engage with people beyond its traditional, local fan base, particularly at such an exciting time for English Rugby. We believe that the range of retro shirts will be a huge hit with our fans right across the spectrum.”

Along with a few first team players, the new Gloucester Rugby by Superdry Collection will launch on 11 July at the brand new Gloucester Rugby megastore at Gloucester Quays.

Gloucester Rugby by Superdry will be available to buy from the 11 July at: Superdry.com Gloucesterrugbyshop.com Gloucester Rugby Store at Gloucester Quays GL1 5SH Cheltenham Superdry Store