Ireland coach Joe Schmidt has extended his contract with the IRFU until 2017.

The New Zealander led Ireland to successive Six Nations titles in 2014 and 2015. Ireland's next game is a World Cup warm-up fixture against Wales in Cardiff on Saturday 8 August.

Speaking about the extension, Schmidt said: "I appreciate the support I have had from the IRFU and look forward to the next two challenging years with the national team.



"It has been great to be involved in such a player-driven environment, along with such a skilled and positive staff to support them in their quest to be as competitive as possible."

IRFU Performance Director David Nucifora said: "We believe that Joe is one of the leading coaches in world rugby so we are delighted that he has extended his contract and will continue to work in Irish Rugby until the end of the 2016/17 season.

"We believe that Joe is one of the leading coaches in world rugby"

"Outside of his national team duties, Joe has contributed to the development of indigenous coaches across the provincial and underage structures as well as having a positive input into the Ireland U20s and Women's squads."

IRFU Chief Executive Philip Browne added: "Joe embodies the core values of the IRFU in what he does and his commitment to the national team is mirrored by his support of rugby clubs and schools.



"He is a tremendous ambassador for our game and will continue to be a vital asset to Irish Rugby over the coming years."

Since Schmidt was appointed, 56 players, including 14 new caps, have represented Ireland.



The team has achieved a 78% win ratio with 14 wins and four losses from the 18 Test matches played to date.



Ireland were ranked eighth in the World Rugby Rankings in October 2013 and are currently ranked third.