The International Rugby Board has announced that it will change its name to World Rugby November 19.

Given that the name "IRB" or International Rugby Board, doesn't exactly mean anything to the average rugby player or sports fan, and given that the IRB does oversee the game around the world, the move seems logical. The new brand, including a new logo, will be launched at the IRB World Rugby Conference and Exhibition in London on November 17-18.

"We are committed to furthering that growth beyond our traditional family and fan base with a public that expects to be entertained, informed and interacted with. This move is more than just a name change, it is a mission statement," IRB Chief Executive Brett Gospersaid. "In a crowded global entertainment and sporting marketplace, the role of the IRB has evolved from Game regulator to Game inspirer. With this we must continue to appeal to those who know and love the sport and its heritage, while attracting, engaging and inspiring those who have no connection with the sport across multiple cultures and languages around the world.

"World Rugby collectively has the ingredients and tools to do just that. Rugby’s global appeal is founded and positioned on its unique character-building values and inclusive ethos and we want everyone to feel connected with the sport and Rugby’s ongoing success story. World Rugby clearly aligns our name with our mission and allows us to organise new and existing consumer facing properties in a way that they will be more impactful and more appealing to the sport's growing global fan base."