London Irish director of rugby Declan Kidney linked with Munster return - Report

Munster Rugby are looking to secure the services of London Irish director of rugby Declan Kidney ahead of the 2022/23 season according to a report.

The Rugby Paper reported that Kidney is among the top contenders to replace Johann van Graan, who will be moving to Bath Rugby at the end of the ongoing campaign.

The 62-year-old started his coaching career as an assistant coach with Munster between 1998 and 2002 and also served them as a head coach between 2005 and 2008. During his tenure, he guided the Irish club to European Champions Cup triumph in 2006 and 2008.

Kidney was also the coached Ireland between 2008 and 2013 during which the team went on to win Grand Slam and Triple Crown in 2009 - the very same year he was awarded IRB Coach of the Year.

His association with London Irish started in 2018 and in the very first season he helped them gain a promotion to the top tier. Even in the ongoing campaign, London Irish are positioned seventh in the Gallagher Premiership while they kick-started their European Challenge Cup season with a win over Pau before their second round clash against Brive was postponed due to Covid-19 travel restrictions.