Gilbert has been signed as the official ball of the New Zealand Rugby Union and the All Blacks.

Gilbert balls will be used in all competitions played in New Zealand, including the Philips International Series and the Air New Zealand NPC and by all NZRU national teams. Gilbert is already the official ball of the Xtra Super 12 under a separate Sanzar deal.

NZRU Deputy Chief Executive Officer Steve Tew said today that Gilbert had signed a four-year deal.

‘We used Gilbert balls during this year’s Philips International Series and the players were impressed with their performance. As a result, we have now entered into a sponsorship arrangement with Gilbert who will be supplying
balls for all our teams and competitions,’ Mr Tew said.

James Gilbert New Zealand General Manager Stanko Zonich said today that the arrangement was a continuation of Gilbert’s strong association with international rugby.

‘Gilbert balls are used in the Six Nations, Heineken Cup, Xtra Super 12 and by the South Africa Rugby Football Union. Gilbert is also the official ball of Rugby World Cup 2003. We’re pleased to now have an association with the All Blacks, the world’s premier rugby brand,’ Mr Zonich said.

For further information:

NZRU Media Manager Joe Locke, ph 04 494 0778

James Gilbert New Zealand General Manager Stanko Zonich, ph 09 630 6637