The Counties Manukau PIC Steelers will turn back the clock this week – no, not daylight saving but with a special edition throwback jersey to honour to of our greatest players.
Apparel partner Canterbury of New Zealand have designed a magnificent retro jersey worn so famously by legendary Counties Manukau wingers Jonah Lomu and Joeli Vidiri for this week’s Jonah Lomu Memorial game against Wellington at Navigation Homes Stadium.
The two great All Blacks wingers produced some highlight reel plays that are forever etched in the hearts of PIC Steelers fans from the 1990s. They featured in some iconic matches and sadly were taken from us far too soon.
Since his passing in 2015, Counties Manukau and Wellington have honoured the famous winger that played for both provinces by playing off for his memorial Cup.
With long-time wing partner Vidiri sadly passing away earlier this year, the teams felt it appropriate to honour the pair and the jerseys will be a tribute.
Reon Graham’s 2022 side will be wearing a limited-edition retro jersey - each jersey will be embroidered and limited to the 15 starting players.
It will also have Counties v Wellington and the date embroidered on it. The left sleeve will have the number 11 and the right 14 in honour of Lomu and Vidiri.
Fullback from the 1990s Dean Sheppard, who formed a lethal back three with Lomu and Vidiri, presented the players with their special jerseys on Wednesday.
The 15 jerseys will be auctioned off at the post match presentation, which will be take place in the Phil Kingsley Jones Lounge at Navigation Homes Stadium with everyone welcome.
“Jonah and Joeli were two of our most favourite sons and they are sorely missed,” chief executive Aaron Lawton said.
“It is so neat to be able to honour them this way and we cannot thank our partners Canterbury of New Zealand enough.
“They look amazing and will be a massive hit with our players and our fans.
“I imagine they will be well sought-after once the game is finished.
“It is also really important for Reon and our current group to connect with those that have been there before them. I know that has been central to Reon’s thinking this season and the players will be very motivated to honour them appropriately.”
A portion of the proceeds will be going to Breast Cancer Foundation, which is being supported by all provincial unions this weekend with all teams wearing pink socks in recognition.
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