Adams and Mann discover stories behind Wales' historic shirts

With Wales preparing to face Japan, New Zealand and Australia this autumn, Josh Adams and Alex Mann have been given a glimpse into the rich history behind the famous red jersey.

Some of the Wales rugby team's most significant historic shirts and memorabilia have been brought out of the archives ahead of this autumn's Nations Championship.

The collection, curated by Welsh Rugby Union [WRU] heritage expert Peter Owens, includes rarely seen items connected to Wales' history with the three nations and was brought together to mark National Sporting Heritage Day on 30 September.

For current Wales players Josh Adams and Alex Mann, seeing the items offered a reminder of what lies behind the shirt they wear today.

"We probably aren't aware of the fact that we've got so much history hidden away," said Cardiff wing Adams.

"Something very special about Wales and rugby is that you're playing for the community, for the history, for the heritage."

Cardiff team-mate Mann was struck by the commitment of players from previous generations, many of whom combined international rugby with full-time jobs.

"They made the path for us," the flanker said.

"They would go and play an international game and then probably done a nine to five before it.

"With not much money back in those days, they put the body on the line for the nation. It's a pretty special thing."