Ireland’s November Test matches will be broadcast live by Sky Sports for the first time from next year after the IRFU yesterday announced a four-year deal with the broadcaster and RTÉ up to and including 2017.

Ireland’s autumn games, which often feature clashes against the likes of New Zealand, South Africa and Australia, will remain on RTÉ, but the BBC will no longer have rights in Britain for next year. The contract extension with RTÉ includes Ireland Wolfhounds games and Ireland under-20 fixtures.

RTÉ already hold rights to the Six Nations through a direct agreement with the tournament organisers, the Six Nations. “Irish Rugby and RTÉ have a long-standing relationship, and we are delighted to be announcing this new agreement, which will ensure that Ireland games continue to be seen on RTÉ channels over the next four years,” IRFU chief executive Philip Browne said. “The addition of Sky Sports as a partner also promises to be beneficial to the game in Ireland.”