Billy Burns among multiple departures from Munster squad

Munster Rugby have confirmed that fly-half Billy Burns will depart the club at the conclusion of the 2024–25 season, as part of a wider reshuffle that includes the exit of several senior and emerging players.

The 30-year-old Irish international joined Munster last summer after six seasons with Ulster and is one of the most high-profile names on the list of outgoing players.

Burns, a former Gloucester player, has earned seven caps for Ireland since making his debut in 2020 against Wales.

Though his time with Munster has been relatively short, he added valuable depth and experience to the squad’s fly-half options during a transitional period for the province.

Alongside Burns, Munster will bid farewell to Scott Buckley, Patrick Campbell, Liam Coombes, Jack Daly, and Cian Hurley. These players, many of whom came through the province’s development pathway, will be moving on at the end of the current campaign.

The announcement follows earlier confirmation that four long-serving Munster stalwarts — Peter O’Mahony, Conor Murray, David Kilcoyne, and Stephen Archer — are also in their final season with the club.

Collectively, their departures mark a significant generational shift for Munster as they prepare for a new era under incoming head coach Clayton McMillan.

Munster are currently focused on securing their place in the United Rugby Championship play-offs and next season’s Champions Cup.

A win against Benetton on Friday evening would guarantee their spot and provide the departing players with at least one more high-stakes fixture before they leave Thomond Park.