As the All Blacks were preparing to take on Namibia today in their second game during the Rugby World Cup, Cook Islands Trading Corporation administration staff were cheering them on.

CITC (Cook Islands Trading Corporation) administration staff have stepped out in black - showcasing their “adopted” World Cup Rugby country team - joining the hype of the tournament

Seventeen divisions of the nation’s second largest employer, with more than 400 staff, have decorated numerous stores and offices, displaying representations of their adopted rugby teams and nations - vying to win the title of the CITC Best Dressed Rugby World Cup Division.

CITC Marketing & Promotions Manager, George “General” George led their team of referees (judges) and supporting linesmen around CITC stores on Wednesday to carry out the difficult task of judging the best dressed team.

“Every division has put in a great effort in representing their adopted World Cup rugby team and country,” George said.

“The All Blacks team did the haka, and other divisions welcomed us with greetings in their respective designated country’s language; it has been a lot of fun, and exciting.”

During each World Cup, the company gets together and draws a country name out of a hat, George said.  

“Obviously everyone wants to pick the New Zealand All Blacks, and this year the admin staff were lucky to draw it.”

The activity helps build camaraderie among staff, he said.

George with his supporting linesmen, have retired to their referee’s room to make their decision on the best dressed team, which is scheduled to be announced today.

The Rugby World Cup 2023 fixtures run from Friday September 8 to Saturday October 28 with matches played across France.

The final will be held at Stade de France in Paris.