Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt has extended his contract to remain in charge of the national rugby team until June 2017.

The IRFU announced the deal this afternoon. The New Zealander's previous deal had been due to expire after the next Six Nations. 

The former Leinster head coach has enjoyed great success with Ireland, winning back-to-back Six Nations titles and will plot Ireland's upcoming World Cup path in the Autumn.

Contrary to initial reports: Schmidt extension to 2017, not 2023. https://t.co/e2ErhtxNAf

— Off The Ball (@offtheball) July 22, 2015

Reacting to the decision, Schmidt said: "I appreciate the support I have had from the IRFU and look forward to the next two challenging years with the National Team. It has been great to be involved in such a player driven environment, along with such a skilled and positive staff to support them in their quest to be as competitive as possible," he said.

Announcing the extension of Joe Schmidt's contract, IRFU Performance Director, David Nucifora also added, "We believe that Joe is one of the leading coaches in world rugby so we are delighted that he has extended his contract and will continue to work in Irish Rugby until the end of the 2016/17 season."