The ‘sh***est jersey’ in Australian sport
The Cronulla Sharks have unveiled their jersey for the 2020 NRL Nines amid a brutal backlash from supporters.
To be worn during the two-day competition in February, the jersey features a wide-mouthed shark, reminiscent of the Jaws movie poster.
The Sharks posted the design to Twitter, claiming, "The Sharks are ready to attack".
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The Sharks are ready to attack the 2020 #NRL9s 💥
— Cronulla Sharks FC (@Cronulla_Sharks) December 13, 2019
➡️ // https://t.co/KcJmw08Hc4#UpUpCronulla pic.twitter.com/L6LcAa10C6
The jersey is for sale on their website, starting at $160 in adult sizes.
Fans were not impressed with the design, many voicing their disgust on Twitter - AAP reporter Oliver Caffrey called it one of the "sh***est jerseys in Australian sport".
The jersey they did for Gallen’s testimonial seems classy and understated in comparison. Cronulla going hard for the title of shittest jerseys in Australian sport and I’m all here for it https://t.co/5D6NehuEBQ pic.twitter.com/0YnhZiDeFG
— Oliver Caffrey (@ollycaffrey) December 13, 2019
Why does the Shark look so sad?
— Lachlan McKirdy (@LMcKirdy7) December 13, 2019
At least make it look a little bit menacing or dangerous https://t.co/1JJoAHjVzK
The Sharks have mimicked the Warriors, who unveiled their own shocking jersey in November.
Known as the "Wellington Jersey", the yellow and black design was inspired by the Kiwi bush shirt, and will be worn by the Warriors when they return to the New Zealand capital in June.
The checkered design was heavily criticised by supporters, one witty fan drawing a comparison to Humphrey B. Bear.
Thee NRL Nines started in 2014, but went on hiatus from 2018 amid player workload concerns.
The 2020 NRL Nines commence Friday, February 14th in Perth. There is a $1 million award for any club that wins both the Nines and NRL Premiership.
