THOMAS J WACKER was appointed the first ever chief executive of the International Rugby Football Board in Bristol yesterday. Wacker (52) will take up his post on May 1st.

Wacker, born in America but with Irish nationality, will combine the role of IRFB Executive Secretary with Rugby World Cup management duties after the IRFB's relocation to Dublin.

"To say that I am delighted is an understatement. Rugby has been both a passion and a pastime for many years," said Wacker, who played rugby for Indiana University and Hong Kong RFC among others during his career.

IRFB Chairman Vernon Pugh said: "I am delighted that we managed to find a candidate of such outstanding quality and track record. He is an exceptionally gifted manager and planner.