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England have unveiled their controversial black jersey and don't believe it will upset the All Blacks.
The alternate jersey was launched by sponsors overnight (NZT) and modelled by several England players.
It will be worn for this Saturday's match against Wales and Twickenham and for England's opening World Cup match against Argentina on September 10.
While the English will revert to their traditional white jersey for the remaining pool fixtures, the 'away' kit could return later in the tournament.
The black jersey has drawn criticism in New Zealand, with prime minister John Key saying "there's only one team that wears black with pride and that's the All Blacks".
Jonah Lomu accused England of "disrespecting their own legacy" and fellow All Blacks great Michael Jones described the jersey as "psychological warfare".
England flanker Tom Wood played down the controversy after trying the black jersey on.
"It has got the red rose on it and that is all that matters to us," Wood told journalists.
"It is a bit of a marketing tactic and will raise a few eyebrows, I am sure.
"But I don't think ultimately it will concern the All Blacks themselves. It is a change kit for the Argentina game, who play in white, so it is necessary.
"The All Blacks have worn white as their change kit and we haven't said anything about that. Perhaps the media will make something of it, but we like it. It looks good and it is good to wear."
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Originally Posted by Alex
