Munster have announced that Ireland international Tadhg Beirne has been appointed the club captain for the upcoming 2024/25 season.
He now follows the likes of Pat Murray, Mick Galwey, Jim Williams, Anthony Foley, Paul O’Connell, Doug Howlett and Peter O’Mahony in the players to captain the province in the professional era.
A product of Leinster Academy, Beirne made his professional rugby debut with the province in 2015 and also played for Scarlets during which he went on to win the title in the 2016/17 season.
The 32-year-old moved to Munster in 2018 and was part of the squad that clinched the domestic title in the 2022/23 season. He made his Ireland debut in 2018 and enjoyed Six Nations title wins in 2023 (Grand Slam) and 2024.
“It’s a huge honour to be named as captain of Munster Rugby and to lead a great group of players into the new season," said Beirne to the club's official website.
“I have had a fantastic six years here and it’s an incredibly proud moment for me and my family.
“Very few people have had the opportunity to captain Munster Rugby, and it’s a massive honour to follow in the footsteps of some incredible players and leaders.
“I had the privilege of leading the team a number of times in the past and the job was always made easier by the amount of leaders we have in the squad.
“We have a very tight-knit group and it means a lot to me to lead the squad as captain for the season ahead.”
Munster head coach Graham Rowntree had high praises for Beirne and expressed confidence on his leadership skills.
“Tadhg is a world-class player who always leads by example. He is the right man to lead Munster into the new season.
“A player of his calibre commands respect and he has grown into a key leader for us since coming here in 2018.
“As a 52-cap Ireland international and British & Irish Lion, he demands the best out of everyone and drives standards within the group.
““He is an extremely calm presence on and off the field. It was very impressive to see how he was able to perform at his usual high level while captaining the squad in a number of big games last season.”