Former France and Toulouse captain Fabien Pelous has been appointed to the rugby committee of the sport's world governing body, the International Rugby Board (IRB).

The rugby committee plays an important role in advising the IRB council on all issues related to playing the game from grass-roots to international level.

Pelous, who won 118 caps for France including 42 as captain, is one of three new additions to the committee along with South African World Cup-winning coach Jake White and leading women's rugby administrator Carol Isherwood.

The trio will work alongside Graham Mourie (chairman), Chris Le Fevre (Canada), Bill Nolan (Scotland), John O'Neill (Australia), David Pickering (Wales) and Pat Whelan (Ireland).

"The IRB is delighted that Fabien Pelous has accepted the IRB council's invitation to join the rugby committee," the body said in a statement.

"Having retired from playing the game only this year, Fabien has considerable experience of the modern Test and domestic game environment and will give the committee a valuable insight into important issues such as player welfare and trends within the game," said IRB chairman Bernard Lapasset.

The Toulouse stalwart, who played at the highest level for 13 seasons, added: "I have enjoyed a wonderful career in rugby as a player and captain and joining the IRB rugby committee will give me a fantastic opportunity to pass on some of the knowledge I have gained.

"I am committed to ensuring our great game continues to grow and develop for future players at whatever level they play."

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