An aligned global rugby calendar currently being discussed by Northern and South Hemisphere nations is in everyone’s interest in terms of commercial benefits and meaningful Test matches, IRFU chief Philip Browne believes.

The first signs of an aligned global rugby calendar were offered by the Six Nations and its southern hemisphere equivalent SANZAAR on Friday as the two bodies confirmed they were working closely together to achieve that objective.

Ireland, France, Italy, and Wales each lost a lucrative home game due to Six Nations postponements in March and the IRFU last month agreed pay deferrals with employees, including professional players contracted, ranging from 10 to 50% of salaries of those earning more than €25,000.