Blitzboks to step out in an original Madiba shirt custom-designed by Presidential Shirt to mark the Centenary of Nelson Mandela's birth The Springbok Sevens team will wear a custom Madiba Shirt in green and gold with the Springbok emblem embedded into an original design worn by Nelson Mandela at the opening ceremony of the Rugby World Cup Sevens tournament in San Francisco later this month.

The opening ceremony takes place on 19 July, a day before the showpiece tournament kicks off and a day after the world celebrates the 100th anniversary of Nelson Mandela's birth. The Springbok Madiba Shirt is a green and gold adaptation of an original print worn by Nelson Mandela in grey and in olive. It was originally designed by Desre Buirski and first worn in February 1997 by President Mandela when meeting US Vice President, Mr Al Gore, at Genadendal in Cape Town.

The Blitzboks recently defended their HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series title in dramatic fashion by clinching the crown in the final match of the 10-tournament series in Paris. Their consistent performances in the series ensured victory over Fiji, winning the title by two points. With many top players injured, the result was particularly impressive, displaying the depth and quality of the team.

"To wear this Madiba shirt to celebrate Nelson Mandela's Centenary is a real honour," says Springbok Sevens captain, Philip Snyman. "We are delighted to share this occasion with the rest of the country and even more privileged to be able to share this with our foes on the world stage. This will inspire us to deliver our best performance for our country."These limited edition shirts are made from 100% soft cotton with a silky finish. The intricate and artistic design is symmetrically placed and matched at every seam. The multiple Springboks, subtly embedded in the design will make this item a unique collector's piece for many fans.

The Springboks will also wear the specially designed shirts before their Test match against Australia in September, as will the Springbok Women's Sevens team, also at the Rugby World Cup Sevens in July. The shirt has been made at the Presidential Group's clothing factory in Gardens, Cape Town and is available to buy.