Munster sport next season’s latest look

THE Munster army will be storming sports shops next month after the High Kings of the South unveiled next season’s battle gear.

Paul O’Connell, Ronan O’Gara, Peter Stringer, Donncha O’Callaghan, Denis Leamy and Anthony Foley were at Dromoland Castle yesterday to unveil the 2007/2008 Adidas-sponsored kit.

Earlier this year, Munster Rugby agreed a three-year sponsorship deal with the international sportswear brand — understood to be worth in the region of €650,000 a year.

Under the terms of the agreement, which came into effect on July 1, Adidas became the official kit supplier to Munster Rugby, replacing Canterbury, whose “CCC” brand has been worn by the former European

Champions since the 1999/2000 season.

Canterbury’s long-term relationship with Munster has been a financial win-win all the way for the New Zealand brand. During Munster’s record-breaking Heineken Cup 2005/2006 season, which culminated in ultimate triumph in Cardiff, Canterbury shifted in the region of 80,000 replica jerseys at an average price of €70 each.

Though Munster’s relationship with Canterbury will end, the Ireland senior rugby team will continue to sport the New Zealand brand name until 2009.

The home kit was worn by team members yesterday — both the traditional looser-fit rugby shirt and the streamlined tight European style, as seen on O’Gara.

For stockists of the new kit telephone [phone].