Nike launch inquiry into torn shirts

The manufacturers of England's new, bodyhugging kit have launched a probe into why some of the players had their high-tech shirts ripped to shreds in the World Cup clash with South Africa.

Nike officials said they have not received negative feedback from the squad about the tight-fitting, short-sleeved shirts which are designed to make it harder for opponents to tackle.

But some players, including captain Martin Johnson, were forced to change their jerseys during the match.

With a game against the tough-tackling Samoans on Sunday, England coach Clive Woodward might be advised to add a seamstress to his back-up team.

"Nike is looking carefully at the individual batch of England shirts from Saturday's game and we are working to address the kit issues raised by that game," a company spokesman said.

"Ripping of shirts is nothing new in rugby. We are confident that this is not a problem, but in such a physical sport there may be isolated instances where a shirt rips from the exceptional forces placed upon it."