Sky Sports will screen live RaboDirect Pro 12 games for the first time from 2014, it has been announced.

Celtic Rugby today confirmed a four-year deal with the satellite broadcaster that will see Sky showing 30 live games per season, plus the competition’s play-offs and final. The agreement will begin at the start of season 2014-15.

Sky is currently in its final season of broadcasting Aviva Premiership fixtures, with live English domestic rugby moving to BT Sport next season.

"Our competition is thriving, with increased numbers going through turnstiles as well as increased TV audiences," said Celtic Rugby chief executive John Feehan.

“We believe that this agreement with Sky will allow us to bring our tournament to an even bigger television audience.

“This is a milestone for Celtic Rugby as it is our first ever network coverage deal in the UK and Ireland.”

Celtic Rugby says it is still in negotiations with other broadcasters, and will announce further agreements in due course.