Based in Serbia, Clean Game is operated by officials responsible for the national anti-doping systems in several countries.

IRL considered 11 tenders from expert global organisations before signing an initial three-year partnership, they revealed.

Taking up the role immediately, Clean Game will become fully integrated into IRL operations, responsible for all aspects of its anti-doping function.

This will include education, risk assessment, test planning and compliance with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code, along with member relations.

"We are on a journey to transform the organisation into a high-capacity International Federation," IRL global operations manager Danny Kazandjian said.

"One that is equipped not only to service its members' and supporters' requirements, but also one that takes its responsibilities as a member of the international sporting community very seriously.

"One of any IF's (International Federations) most important responsibilities is an effective and extensive anti-doping function.

"We are delighted to be partnering with Clean Game, which is an experienced IF partner with an excellent reputation in the anti-doping community.

Kazandjian added: "All the tenderers we spoke to were very supportive of the steps we are taking, and I would like to thank them for their dedication.

"I would also like to thank WADA for its guidance and encouragement throughout this process and look forward to evolving our plans with them over the coming weeks and months."

Professor Nenad Dikic, Clean Game director, said: "International Rugby League is an International Federation with whom every anti-doping organisation would like to work.

"It will be a significant task for Clean Game to support International Rugby League and its players on all continents. 

"This is not a duty for the simple service provider, but it is a job for an experienced anti-doping organisation which knows how to support International Rugby League in every aspect of anti-doping.

"We want to thank International Rugby League for its confidence in us and the opportunity to work together."

The problem of doping is ongoing for both rugby league and union, with numerous cases this year.

Recent figures listed a total of 30 rugby players currently serving bans, including 12 league players.