The 2022/23 champions experienced a torrid time in South Africa by losing 34-19 to the Stormers in Cape Town, while on Saturday they were beaten 41-24 by the Sharks in Durban.

The team from Limerick is currently 12th on the log after six games following just two wins and four defeats.

On Monday the Red Army confirmed that the Head of Rugby Operations Ian Costello will take over as Interim Head Coach, while they have initiated the recruitment of a permanent coach.

Munster Rugby and the IRFU today confirm the departure of Graham Rowntree as Head Coach by mutual agreement.

We thank Graham for his passion & dedication to Munster Rugby over the past 5 years & wish him and his family the very best for the future.

Full statement ??#SUAF ??

— Munster Rugby (@Munsterrugby) October 29, 2024

“We would like to thank Graham for his passion and dedication to Munster Rugby over the past five years,” said the CEO, Ian Flanagan. “I would like to wish him and his family the very best for the future on behalf of Munster Rugby.

“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.”

The former England international prop, Rowntree, in turn, took the club and said he looks forward to the next chapter in his career.

‘It is the right stage for my family and I to look forward to a new chapter’

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.”

Munster’s next game in the URC is on 30 November against the Lions at Thomond Park.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh