Mamelodi Sundowns have returned the favour by paying tribute to the Blue Bulls with the unveiling of their new third kit for the 2018-19 season.

The Super Rugby side sported Masandawana’s famous yellow and blue in their away games this season in celebration of the Pretoria-based union’s 80th anniversary.

‘The Bulls released an away kit in the Brazilian colours of Mamelodi Sundowns in January 2018, in homage to the continuing success of the PSL champions. Today Mamelodi Sundowns have reciprocated by releasing a kit in the colours of their rugby-playing brothers,’ said PUMA marketing director Brett Bellinger.

‘There are many Tshwane residents who follow and admire both teams, I guess now they can wear a football shirt to watch the rugby and vice versa!’

Mamelodi Sundowns spokesperson Thulani Thuswa said: ‘There is a saying: “Tshwane ra tshwana – in Pretoria we are the same”.

‘This new third kit symbolizes the City of Champions and what greater way to pay tribute to our fellow city giants than by donning their famous blue. What makes the deal even sweeter is that we share a sponsor in PUMA, who have set the trend by having two different sporting codes wearing each other’s jerseys.’

Mamelodi Sundowns will begin their title defence against Kaizer Chiefs when the two sides lock horns in a mouth-watering Absa Premiership opener at Loftus Stadium on Saturday with kick-off set for 3pm.