Wales unveil new World Cup strip

Coach Gareth Jenkins requested new kit technology

Wales say that their new streamlined kit will give them an extra edge at the Rugby World Cup.

The jersey includes technology designed to neutralise potential "tackling points", reduce the risk of muscle injury and support the body in contact.

The front five have a looser-fitting design to assist binding, with a more generous fit for replica fans' kit.

"We wanted to make a considerable step forward in the game's science," said Welsh Rugby Union boss Roger Lewis.

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"Every inch will count at the World Cup and we feel we are stealing that inch."

England were the first side to push for skin-tight shirts with no collar ahead of the 2003 World Cup.

Sir Clive Woodward had the idea after his analysis of a Calcutta Cup match showed Jason Robinson might have scored a hat-trick had the Scotland defenders not been able to grab on to his jersey.

All top-level international shirts are now streamlined for that reason.

"One key request from us was that the shirt would be more difficult to grab hold of in a tackle," said Wales coach Gareth Jenkins.