Pickering takes over from Jacques Laurans who has been Chairman since September 2002 and will remain on the Six Nations Council as Representative for the French Rugby Union.

The former Llanelli and Neath player claimed international honours at schools, university and senior level, going on to earn 23 caps, eight as captain, between 1983 and 1987.

He then went on to coach Neath for five years before managing Wales A team and subsequently Wales.

Pickering, who is also chairman of the board of the Millennium Stadium, was elected to be a National representative of the Welsh Rugby Union in 1998 and became Chairman of the Union in 2002.

Under his Chairmanship the WRU debt has been reduced by £30 million and the Welsh Rugby Team has won two Grand Slam in four years.

He joined the IRB Council in 2000.

Following his appointment he commented, "It is an honour to be elected Chairman of the Six Nations and a privilege to work with such a dedicated group of people as the Six Nations Council.

"I would like to thank our outgoing Chairman, Jacques Laurans for leading the Six Nations Council through a period of exceptional growth and success, leading to the historical signing of the Six Nations Constitution in 2004."

"The RBS Six Nations tournament is the most successful annual international rugby competition in the world and I am looking forward to ensuring it continues to thrive and develop.

"Here in Wales the Six Nations is part of our rugby culture and I am delighted to have been given the chairmanship as we are celebrating yet another Grand Slam victory.

"My colleagues on the committee are all great ambassadors for their countries and I am looking forward to building on the work we have already achieved."

A statement from the WRU hailed his appointment, declaring, "The senior role overseeing one of the most successful competitions in world sport reflects Pickering's status as one of the most respected administrators in world rugby."

WRU chief executive Roger Lewis added: "David's appointment is fantastic news for Welsh rugby, he is one of the most respected administrators in the world game and it is with great pride that we welcome his appointment to such a high office.

"The fact that he has been chosen for this new honour just goes to show the calibre of the man we have in our midst.

"He will continue to represent Wales at the very highest of levels in the world game and the WRU can only benefit from the commitment and service he can offer to rugby in the years to come."