Fri 1 Apr 2016 | 11:12
Gilbert release the easier handling and far more visible Match XV Plus size ball

9
Comments

Gilbert have today released the all new, highly innovative Gilbert Rugby Match XV Plus ball, the largest of it's kind to date. Tested by the pros and now ready for launch, the Match XV Plus will be used when Saracens take on Harlequins at Wembley later this month.

Following an extensive development process Gilbert have consulted with many top clubs, players and broadcasters to find the perfect balance in ball dimensions and size to offer the best experience to players, supporters and officials without compromising any of the famous technical genius accustomed to a Gilbert Rugby ball.

With improved handling, superior visibility and an optimised sweet-spot, the Match-XV Plus will launch in Aviva Premiership Rugby later this month at Wembley.

A successful debut could lead to it being used in the tournament showpiece – the Aviva Premiership Rugby Final on 28 May, a possiblity that excites England number eight Billy Vunipola.

"We’ve been practising with it and it’s great to handle as well as being easier to see. The grip’s exactly the same as the normal size ball and the kickers seem to be loving it."

9 Comments

  • canafrikaaner
    6:12 AM 04/04/2016

    Bravo gilbert... bravo

  • larry
    3:37 PM 03/04/2016

    Make the ball bigger? Stupid. I'd have gotten an email about a law change to make the ball bigger from my local referee society. I think this is an April Fool's joke.

  • katman
    2:15 PM 02/04/2016

    Can you imagine the poor hooker with his fat little sausage fingers trying to throw this into the lineout?

  • drg
    6:27 PM 01/04/2016

    Will cry with laughter if the joke is actually on us and they DO genuinely break this out for the match..

  • drg
    5:08 PM 01/04/2016

    haha.. Got to admit when I first saw the article, I thought it was a ball designed for some disabled side to the sports - visual impairment rugby...

  • benny
    3:16 PM 01/04/2016

    I'm outraged and offended, next they'll be making it rounder and telling us we can't pick it up!

  • jimmy23
    1:39 PM 01/04/2016

    Naaaah, it's toats legit like

  • bunn
    1:12 PM 01/04/2016

    I bet this is that cheat McCaw's idea!

  • drg
    12:59 PM 01/04/2016

    Ridiculous really* ;)