The contract will see the New Zealand company supply on-field, training and leisure wear to Ireland's Senior, A, under 21 and schoolboy national teams, as well as continuing as official merchandise partner to the IRFU.

Canterbury of New Zealand - established in 1904 - is the world's largest rugby brand, and outfits Australia, Scotland, Fiji and Japan amongst other international teams.

This announcement follows the unveiling earlier this month of the new Ireland national team jersey (pictured, above) which remains predominantly green, but now features white under-arm and side panels.