FORMER Wales wing Gerald Davies has been appointed as chairman of the Guinness Pro12, succeeding fellow ex-Lion Andy Irvine.

It was Wales' turn to put forward a candidate and Davies, who stepped down from his position on the board of the Welsh Rugby Union last summer, and former WRU chairman David Pickering were in the running. The former has got the nod.

"It is an honour to be appointed chairman of the Pro12", said Davies, who was manager of the Lions' tour to South Africa in 2009.

"The Guinness Pro12 is going from strength to strength on and off the field with both TV audience and attendance increasing steadily year on year, 119 internationals from the Pro12 represented their countries in the Autumn Internationals showcasing the depth and quality of our competition."

Pro12 chief executive John Feehan said: "it is a privilege to have Gerald Davies as our chairman, his understanding of rugby is exceptional.

"Gerald embodies the rugby ethos and tradition while at the same time having extensive experience in the governance of our sport. I would like, on behalf of the board, to thank Andy Irvine for his years of service as chairman of the Pro12".