All Blacks

The All Blacks are the national rugby union representative team of New Zealand. They are a cultural icon of New Zealand internationally. (In Wales, the name can refer to Neath Rugby Club.)

Related Topics:
Rugby union - Team - New Zealand - Cultural icon - Wales - Neath

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The first usage apparently dates from the first tour of Britain by a New Zealand national rugby team, given the title The Originals, in 1905/1906. (According to Greg Ryan there was also a tour of Britain in 1888/1889 by The New Zealand Native Football Representatives).

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According to Billy Wallace, one of the members of the Originals, the name originated in a London newspaper's description of the New Zealand representatives playing as if they were all backs. Other sources suggest that it is more likely that the name originated in the black uniform worn by

Related Topics:
Billy Wallace - London

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the players, with earlier reference to "the Blacks" as a common type of nickname at the time (New Zealand Rugby Museum on this topic).

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In 1925, when the Invincibles toured the Home Nations, the entirely black playing uniform was emblazoned with the silver fern symbol.

Related Topics:
Uniform - Silver fern

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The All Blacks are best-known world-wide for performing the haka (Maori war dance) before each international match.

Related Topics:
Haka - Maori

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For much of the 20th century, rugby union appeared to be New Zealand's national religion, with selection to the All Blacks perhaps more highly regarded than a knighthood. The All Blacks have always been recognised as a formidable power in world rugby. They have experienced many highs, such as winning the World Cup, but also a unique low when they lost two test matches on the same day, September 3, 1949. On that day they lost 6-11 to the Wallabies in Wellington, and 3-9 to the Springboks in South Africa.

Related Topics:
20th century - Knighthood - World Cup - September 3 - 1949 - Wallabies - Wellington - Springboks - South Africa

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