The previous emblem had been in use since 1875, however the new logo - which again features a rugby ball and three shamrocks motif - became live at the start of this month.

IRFU Commercial & Marketing Director, Padraig Power, said: "The new logo and corporate identity has been carefully designed so as not to depart too far from the history and traditional identity of the IRFU and reflects the deep roots the organisation has in the game of rugby over the last 134 year. At the same time it needed to reflect a more modern outlook for the game and organisation.

"The new IRFU logo has arrived as Irish Rugby looks to build on what was an extraordinarily successful last season and will hopefully embody a continued sense of confidence, professionalism and strength that was the hallmark of this success last year.”

The new logo was developed by Dublin based design agency DCOY Design.

Power added: "We are delighted with the work DCOY Design have put into the project in creating the new logo, capturing accurately that sense of optimism that is prevalent in Irish Rugby."