Two of the game's leaders have backed Kalyn Ponga's call to introduce personalised NRL jerseys.<\/p>\n
On Tuesday evening, Ponga posted a photo of NBA superstars Lamelo Ball and Carmelo Anthony swapping jerseys post-match.<\/p>\n
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"NRL put names on the back of our jerseys." Ponga wrote.<\/p>\n
"I want [Roger] Tuivasa-Sheck before he leaves."<\/p>\n
While the idea of personalised jerseys seems like a no-brainer in terms of both the commercial and personal benefits, many fans are still resistant to change for reasons that remain unclear.<\/p>\n
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But when asked at the 2021 NRL season launch on Thursday about his thoughts, Warriors fullback Tuivasa-Sheck backed the call from his Newcastle counterpart.<\/p>\n
"That [idea] was pretty cool, especially as we have similar likes of American sports, he said.<\/p>\n
"It'd be a sign of respect to swap jerseys with players you look up to and those you think are going to go well."<\/p>\n
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Tuivasa-Sheck did acknowledge that if the change was to come at the expense of a sponsor that it could be tricky.<\/p>\n
Rabbitohs skipper Adam Reynolds agreed with Ponga as well, saying it was a "no-brainer".<\/p>\n
"I think it's a great idea for the game. You look over in England they're doing it, and it's a great initiative.<\/p>\n
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"As little kids growing up you always wanted to be your heroes and it's a great way to express interest in who you like and who you support."<\/p>\n
But would we see Reynolds choosing a non-halfback's number if given the chance?<\/p>\n
"I'd stick with seven – I'll leave 23 to Cam Smith or something," he said.<\/p>\n
"I'd keep the same numbers we have now but put the names on top like they do in Origin."<\/p>\n
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