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Munster have confirmed Roger Randle will no longer join the province as attack coach.
The New Zealander’s arrival, subject to a work permit, was announced on 15 April, but Munster have now said the move is off by “mutual agreement”.
Randle’s planned arrival was met by some opposition as a 1997 rape allegation resurfaced.
The alleged incident occurred in Durban, South Africa, during Randle’s playing days with the Hurricanes – a charge that was dropped by the complainant and one he has always denied.
Following his appointment by Munster, former players Billy Holland, Killian Keane and Mick O’Driscoll stepped down as independent nominees on the province’s Professional Game Committee. There were also resignations from Munster’s voluntary Commercial Advisory Group.
In a statement, Randle expressed his “sadness and disappointment” he will no longer join the province and head coach Clayton McMillan, reaffirming his denial of past wrongdoing.
“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.
“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.”
‘This was the best course of action for all’ – Costello
Munster general manager Ian Costello accepted it had been “a difficult conclusion” to call the move off, but felt “it became clear that this was the best course of action for Roger, his family and Munster Rugby”.
Randle previously worked under McMillan at the Chiefs in Super Rugby and Munster’s head coach has expressed his disappointment they will not reunite this summer.
“I want to acknowledge Roger’s professionalism throughout this process and the way he has engaged in what have been difficult discussions for everyone,” McMillan said.
“I am personally disappointed that we will not have the opportunity to work together at Munster. 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.”
Munster are currently fifth in the United Rugby Championship (URC) standings before their penultimate regular-season game at Connacht on Saturday, 9 May.
