Rowntree leaves Munster after two years as head coach

Graham Rowntree joined Munster as forwards coach five years ago

Munster have announced the departure of head coach Graham Rowntree by mutual agreement.

The former England prop leaves after three consecutive defeats in the United Rugby Championship.

Rowntree was named head coach in 2022 after joining the Irish province three years earlier as forwards coach.

Head of rugby operations Ian Costello will take over as interim head coach while the search for Rowntree's replacement begins.

Rowntree said: "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."

Rowntree led Munster to the URC title - their first trophy in 12 years - in his first season in charge.

Munster also secured top spot in the the URC last season, but the 53-year-old leaves after a disappointing start to the current campaign.

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

"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."