Munster appoint Chiefs' McMillan as new head coach

Wed, Feb 26, 2025, 10:27 PM
AAP
by AAP
Clayton McMillan will leave the Chiefs for Irish powerhouse Munster. Photo: Getty Images
Clayton McMillan will leave the Chiefs for Irish powerhouse Munster. Photo: Getty Images

Munster have appointed Clayton McMillan as permanent successor to Graham Rowntree as the club's new head coach.

The New Zealander, currently in charge of Super Rugby club the Chiefs in his homeland, will join the province in July on a three-year contract. 

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Rowntree's abrupt departure by mutual consent was announced on October 29. 

McMillan coached the Maori All Blacks to a win and a loss against Andy Farrell's Ireland in 2022, before leading an All Blacks XV to victory over Munster at Thomond Park in November. 

"I am humbled to be given the opportunity to lead Munster, an iconic club steeped in history," McMillan told Munster's website. 

"Leading the All Blacks XV against Munster last year gave me insight into the immense pride and passion of the club's players, staff and wider rugby community. It was an incredible atmosphere and left a lasting impression. 

"I am excited by the club's ambition and core values. They align strongly with my own, and I look forward to joining the team in July." 

Head of rugby operations Ian Costello will remain interim head coach until the end of the season, before taking on the newly created position of general manager. 

As part of the restructure, attack coach Mike Prendergast, who applied to succeed Rowntree, will move up to the role of senior coach during the summer. 

Munster chief executive Ian Flanagan said: "After a thorough recruitment process, we are delighted to secure Clayton McMillan as our new head coach. 

"Throughout our conversations with Clayton, what really stood out was his experience and how his coaching philosophy and values align with what we want to achieve at Munster Rugby."

“We’re incredibly grateful to Clayton for everything he has done for our club since joining in 2021 and becoming Head Coach of the Gallagher Chiefs," Chiefs CEO Simon Graafhuis said.

"Under Clayton’s guidance we’ve not only enjoyed success on the field, but Clayton has also played a significant role in embedding a strong culture and values at the Chiefs Rugby Club.

“We wish Clayton and his whānau all the best on their upcoming move and in the meantime look forward to having him lead us through the remainder of the DHL Super Rugby Pacific season.”

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