Munster's controversial Roger Randle appointment called off

The appointment had caused consternation due to an historic rape accusation against the New Zealander dating back to 1997

Assistant Coach Roger Randle of the Chiefs. Pic: Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images

Munster’s controversial appointment of Roger Randle as attack coach from next season is off, the club have confirmed, with the decision described as ‘mutually agreed’.

The appointment of Randle had caused consternation at the province due to an historic rape accusation against the New Zealander dating back to 1997 when he was a player on tour with the Hurricanes.

The case did not proceed when the complainant dropped charges against him, and Randle always denied the allegation, but the episode caused huge disquiet in circles here when head coach Clayton McMillan decided to bring him on board.

Added to that was the nature of the appointment in the first place with chief executive Ian Flanagan, general manager Ian Costello and McMillan all reportedly deciding on the appointment before consulting with the province’s Professional Games Committee (PGC).

“I am deeply saddened that unfounded allegations from nearly 30 years ago — allegations I have always denied — have resurfaced during this process and overshadowed what was a wonderful opportunity to contribute to Munster Rugby,” Randle said as Munster confirmed the news. “I want to state clearly that these claims are false, and I maintain my complete and unwavering innocence, as I always have.

“It became clear that the renewed public attention around these allegations had created circumstances where proceeding with the role was no longer the right outcome for our family. This is something that we accept with genuine sadness and disappointment.

“My priority now is supporting my family and moving forward, while continuing to stand by the truth.

“I would like to sincerely thank Clayton, the wider Munster Rugby organisation and its supporters, and I wish them every success in the future.” 

McMillan said he was personally disappointed by the outcome of the process to bolster his backroom with a familiar face.

“I want to acknowledge Roger’s professionalism throughout this process and the way he has engaged in what have been difficult discussions for everyone,” he said.

“I know Roger well, he’s an outstanding person and coach, and I believe he would have brought a real quality to the programme.

“My priority and immediate focus is supporting the players and staff, who have shown resolute focus during a challenging period, to deliver the strongest possible finish to the season.”

The episode has been a needless and embarrassing own goal for Munster and at a crucial time of the year when the senior squad is striving to claim the URC points needed to secure a playoff spot and a place in next season’s Champions Cup competition.

The reputational damage to the club has been considerable and the fallout, internally and externally, will take time to dissipate. That’s the big picture side to it. 

Zoom in and Munster still have no attack coach confirmed for next season. Mike Prendergast will be at Bath, working alongside Johan van Graan by then.

Mossy Lawler, currently the skills and attack coach, is one possibility to fill the soon-to-be-vacated role.

“This has been a difficult conclusion to reach," 

general manager, Ian Costello said, "but after recent discussions, it became clear that this was the best course of action for Roger, his family and Munster Rugby.

“Our focus remains on supporting the team for the rest of the season and ensuring we have the best structures and systems in place for the 2026/27 season.”