Munster have confirmed that Roger Randle will no longer be joining the club as attack coach by mutual agreement, following a backlash over a historic rape allegation.
Background of the Appointment
Randle, currently an assistant coach with the Chiefs in New Zealand, had been announced as the replacement for Mike Prendergast, who is moving to Bath, on 15 April. However, his appointment was met with significant opposition when a 1997 rape allegation resurfaced.
The charge was dropped by the complainant and always denied by Randle. Despite this, three members of Munster’s professional game committee stepped down after the announcement that he would be joining the United Rugby Championship (URC) side.
Mutual Agreement to Part Ways
Munster have now confirmed that the 51-year-old, who was capped twice by the All Blacks, will no longer be taking up the role. In a statement, Randle expressed his sadness over the situation.
“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.”
Randle’s Future Plans
Randle added: “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.”
Munster currently sit fifth in the URC standings with two rounds of the regular season remaining. The club will now need to find a new attack coach ahead of the next campaign.
