Young gun Jack Bird was front and centre at Rugby League Central in the Heroes and Legends Museum earlier today unveiling the Sharks playing strip for the 2017 Downer NRL Auckland Nines.
Bird was joined by players from the other 15 NRL clubs at what was the official jersey launch for what will be the first Rugby League tournament in 2017.
NRL Head of Football Brian Canavan said the Nines was a fantastic occasion for players and fans alike and confirmed tickets were still available for fans wanting to witness all 16 NRL teams on the one stage over a two-day tournament.
“The Downer NRL Auckland Nines has been a fantastic start to our rugby league calendar for the past three years and each year, the atmosphere and rugby league on display has been bigger and better,” Mr Canavan said.
“With the likes of Johnathan Thurston, Shaun Johnson and Jarryd Hayne already confirmed for next year’s tournament, I have no doubt that we are in for another entertaining weekend of rugby league with plenty of opportunities to see some of your favourite players.”
The 2017 Downer Auckland Nines will be played on the weekend of 4-5 February at Eden Park in Auckland.
Bird spoke with Sharks TV and expressed his desire to be a part of the tournament however Coach Shane Flanagan has yet to determine a squad for the Auckland Nines, with the World Club Challenge match against Wigan just two weeks later complicating his decision surrounding a Nines team.
Tickets are on sale now at www.nrl.com/tickets and travel packages are on sale at www.sportsnetholidays.com/nines.
Further information on the tournament can be found at www.nrlaucklandnines.com
