Controversial Munster appointment of Roger Randle called off

Munster Rugby have confirmed that the controversial appointment of Roger Randle as attack coach will no longer proceed.

The province described the decision as "mutually agreed," following the consideration of "the circumstances that have developed after the announcement".

The appointment of Randle had triggered unease at the province due to an historic rape accusation made against the New Zealander dating back to 1997 when he was a player on tour with the Hurricanes.

The case did not proceed when the complainant dropped charges against him, and Randle always denied the allegation. Regardless, the episode caused huge disquiet when head Munster coach Clayton McMillan decided to bring him on board.

Added to that was the nature of the appointment in the first place, with chief executive Ian Flanagan, general manager Ian Costello and McMillan all reportedly deciding on the appointment before consulting with the province’s Professional Games Committee (PGC), according to the Irish Examiner.

“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 as Munster confirmed the news.

“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