The ACT Brumbies will pay their respects to Australian defence forces by wearing a special jersey to commemorate their Anzac Day Super Rugby clash against the Otago Highlanders.
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The Brumbies jersey will feature poppies on the shoulders and sides, with a camouflage print and the Soldier On logo, a charity raising money for physically and psychologically wounded soldiers, for the contest on April 24.
The Brumbies initially hoped to play the match on April 25 - Anzac Day - as part of Canberra's events to mark 100 years since the Anzac landing.
But they were forced to play a day earlier, with the GWS Giants to take on the Gold Coast Suns at Manuka Oval on Anzac Day.
"It's one of the few days where footy takes a back seat to those who have fought and given their lives for our freedom," said Brumbies halfback Nic White.
"It will be an emotional day for a lot of guys. What better way than to play against some New Zealand guys and then celebrate Anzac Day the following day."
The Brumbies want to make an Anzac Day contest an annual fixture in the Super Rugby season.
They beat the Waikato Chiefs last year and play New Zealand rivals the Highlanders this season.
Super Rugby's governing body, SANZAR, will allow the Australian and New Zealand national anthems to be played before kick-off this year, after backflipping on its decision to ban the anthems 12 months ago.
"It's a special day for both countries and really unites us," said Brumbies flanker Scott Fardy.
"It should be a really special weekend in the 100th year of the Anzac Gallipoli landing."
