Ireland rugby star Jonathan Sexton has been named as the inaugural Northern President of the International Rugby Players Association (IRPA).

He will serve in the role simultaneously with New Zealand captain and record test cap holder Richie McCaw, who is the President for the South.

The IRPA represents international rugby players and both Sexton and McCaw will be involved in advisory groups and will share their opinions about issues related to player welfare.

"It is with this in mind that I am delighted and honoured to be the IRPA’s President North. I congratulate Richie and look forward to working with him in the exciting year ahead," said Sexton.

Landmark announcment as Sexton & McCaw become IRPAs first Dual Presidents #globalvoice #IRPA https://t.co/CfBe2WAHX1 pic.twitter.com/5wZ82FBr0N

— InternationalRugbyPA (@TheIRPA) August 20, 2015