Why did the English and Scots wear jerseys with their names on them?

Ovality is a small phenomenon in the world. Thistle’s XV won for the second time in the 21st century at Twickenham (29-23), on Saturday February 4, but this meeting of the 2023 competition between England and Scotland has become historic for another reason. This is the first time two teams have played in the same Six Nations tournament with shirts bearing their players’ names (the Welsh were already named Tunics in 2008). But why such a novelty?

While rugby’s collective values ​​have long constrained this practice, the two nations’ confederations have been attempting a marketing ploy since last autumn’s tour. XV du Chardon started first against Australia on 29 October.

The British followed suit a few days later. The purpose is “To further inspire our world-class international players and bring fans closer to the stars of our sport”Phil Sweeney, chairman of the FA, explained in a press release when the XV of the Roses demonstrated this uniqueness against Argentina on November 5 (a 30-29 loss).

But it is difficult for confederations to really bet on this artistry to know their players. Unlike the number of football players which remains constant throughout the season, the number of rugby players depends on the positions they play on the field. However, players have the opportunity Change position from game to game. “I like the impersonal side of numbers, the individualities are not presented too much in relation to the team”French international U20 Maxime Baudonne said in the team. A new battle between modern and traditional?