A four deal deal between the IRFU and Vodafone has been confirmed on Monday afternoon.

The telecommunications giant replaces rivals Three as sponsors of the Irish rugby team. The deal runs for four years and will include the team's participation in the 2019 World Cup in Japan. 

A giant Ireland jersey was laid out on the pitch on Monday morning and was revealed bit by bit over a two-and-a-half hour period. It was broadcast live for fans to watch, and engage.

Ireland captain Rory Best was joined in the Aviva Stadium by vice-captain Jamie Heaslip, along with Keith Earls and Ultan Dillane to launch the jersey. It will be first worn next month against South Africa in a three-test series.

The terms of the contract have not been published.

Ireland's Ultan Dillane, Keith Earls, Rory Best and Jamie Heaslip. Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Billy Stickland

Ireland's Keith Earls, Rory Best, Ultan Dillane and Jamie Heaslip. Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Billy Stickland

Ireland's Keith Earls, Jamie Heaslip, Rory Best and Ultan Dillane with Philip Browne, IRFU CEO and Anne O’Leary, Vodafone CEO. Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Billy Stickland

Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Billy Stickland