Munster confirm eight players to join academy ahead of 2026/27 season

RISING STARS: Christopher Barrett is one of eight players joining the Munster academy ahead of the 2026/27 season. Pic: ©INPHO/Tom O’Hanlon.

Munster have confirmed eight players have joined their academy ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Christopher Barrett, Rob Carney, Jamie Conway, Joe Finn, Christian Foley, Alex Lautsou, James O’Leary and Charlie O’Shea have joined the rest of the provinces rising stars.

All eight players have come through the Munster system and have all been called up for the Ireland U20s this season while, as previously confirmed, Max Clein, Seán Edogbo, Ronan Foxe and Ben O’Connor are being promoted to the senior squad for the 2026/27 season.

Michael Foy will spend one more year in the Academy before moving up to the senior squad in 2027.

“The new Academy intake for next season once again highlights the excellent work being carried out through our NTS programme, with eight players progressing into our Year 1 Academy,” said Munster Rugby Academy & Pathway Manager Gar Prendergast.

“This achievement represents the culmination of a number of years of hard work, dedication, and development from the players, all of whom have progressed through our player pathway system.

“It is important to acknowledge the crucial role played by their clubs and schools, whose continued support and collaboration have been instrumental in helping these players reach this milestone.

“The collective efforts of players, families, coaches, clubs and schools continue to provide a strong foundation for the development of future Academy talent.”

Munster Rugby General Manager Ian Costello added: “This is one of the most exciting groups that we have seen progress into the Academy.

“It is particularly pleasing that all players have been promoted from our NTS programme. Increased investment in the academy and pathway has been a key strategic priority at the club for the past five years.

“During that time, the NTS and Academy programmes have expanded considerably. NTS player numbers have doubled and 19 players have successfully transitioned from the academy into the senior squad.

“This reflects the both the importance and the quality and breadth of work carried out by Gar Prendergast and the Academy and NTS teams.”