Graham Rowntree departs as Munster head coach after poor start to season

Graham Rowntree has stepped down as head coach of Munster Rugby by mutual consent effective immediately.

The decision, confirmed by both Munster and the IRFU on Tuesday, comes after a disappointing start to the 2023-24 URC season and three consecutive losses.

Munster, who finished first in the United Rugby Championship standings last season but faltered in the play-offs, have struggled for form in the current campaign.

After six games, they sit 12th in the 16-team table, with just two wins from six matches.

The Reds managed home victories against Connacht and Ospreys, but their road form has been troubling. This includes a historic defeat to Zebre Parma, long considered one of the league's weaker teams, followed by heavy losses to Leinster, Stormers, and Sharks.

With Rowntree’s departure, Ian Costello, Munster’s Head of Rugby Operations, has taken over as interim head coach. Munster has stated that the recruitment process for a permanent replacement will begin immediately.

In a statement issued on Tuesday morning, Munster Rugby CEO Ian Flanagan said: “We would like to thank Graham for his passion and dedication to Munster Rugby over the past five years, and I would like to wish him and his family the very best for the future on behalf of Munster Rugby.

“With the All Blacks XV coming to a sold-out Thomond Park this weekend and a number of big games on the horizon in November and December, our focus will be on continuing to support the coaches and the players for the season ahead.”

Munster is now preparing for a sold-out clash against the New Zealand All Blacks XV at Thomond Park on Saturday, but their league campaign will resume on November 30 against the Lions, who currently sit in fourth place.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here in Munster working with a very talented group of players and coaches," said Rowntree.

“I would like to thank the wider Munster family for all the support they have shown me in my time here but now is the right stage for my family and I to look forward to a new chapter.”