It doesn’t neither did the heritage jersey from that year. The panels on the Souths jersey are to allow for two distinct home and away kits whilst still playing in red and green ‘hoops’ in both kits.
Absolutely the reason. I wish they made the panels a lot thinner though. Subtle piping like the CCC template would look nice if done properly. Then white/black on the sleeves, collar and rabbit.
Will be interesting to see what the first WIL jersey will look like. Apparently they are replacing the red hoops with pink, I hope the keep the side panels green like the ANZAC strip.