Munster Rugby and the Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) have announced the departure of head coach Graham Rowntree by mutual agreement. The former Leicester Tigers and England forward took the reins as head coach in the 2022/2023 campaign and led the province to the United Rugby Championship (URC) title that season. However, it’s been a tough start to this season for the Limerick-based outfit. They currently sit 12th in the URC and have won just two of their opening six games.
The announcement comes after a difficult start to the season for Munster, with three consecutive defeats in the URC. These defeats, including a 41-24 loss to the Sharks in Durban, have put pressure on the team, leading to the decision to part ways with Rowntree.
The Decision to Depart
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.”
Flanagan continued: “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.”
Rowntree said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here in Munster working with a very talented group of players and coaches. 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.”
Rowntree's Tenure
Rowntree’s departure marks the end of a five-year association with Munster. He initially joined as a forwards coach under Johann van Graan following the 2019 Rugby World Cup, before taking the head coach role when Van Graan left for Bath. In his first season as head coach, Rowntree led Munster to their first trophy in 12 years by clinching the URC title with a victory over the Stormers in Cape Town in May 2022. The club also finished top of the table in the URC last season.
What's Next for Munster?
With Rowntree’s departure, Head of Rugby Operations Ian Costello has been appointed as interim head coach. The club is currently in the process of searching for a permanent replacement. The next game for Munster will be a high-profile match against the All Blacks XV, a game that is expected to draw a large crowd to Thomond Park. Munster currently sits 12th in the table as the URC pauses for a four-week break. Their next league game is scheduled for November 30th at home to the fourth-place Lions.
A New Chapter for Rowntree
Rowntree’s departure from Munster marks the end of a successful chapter in his coaching career. However, it is likely that he will be back in the coaching ranks soon, seeking new challenges and opportunities. He has a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success, making him a valuable asset to any team.
