Millar appointed IRB chief

Former Ireland prop Dr Syd Millar has been elected unopposed as the International Rugby Board’s new chairman.

He was the unanimously backed candidate at the IRB council meeting in Sydney and his appointment is for a minimum of three years.

Millar has successfully been in charge on an interim basis following the death of Vernon Pugh in April.

“When I took over as acting chairman after Vernon Pugh’s death I made it very clear that I was not seeking the role as chairman of the IRB,” said Millar.

“However, I would like to thank council for its support during the past year and for its confidence going forward into the future.”

Millar won 37 caps for Ireland, represented the Lions, and managed Ireland at the 1987 World Cup before representing Ireland on the IRB council.