Munster statement defends new coach over historical rape accusations

The club have spoken

The former All Black will reunite with head coach Clayton McMillan - whom he worked under at the Chiefs - when the Super Rugby season concludes in July, provided he can get a work permit.

The hire has been speculated over for a while, and gathered further steam when current backs coach Mike Prendergast announced that he would be leaving at the end of the season.

However, Munster have come in for criticism following the appointment, given Randle's history.

In 1997, while playing for the Hurricanes, he was charged with the rape of a woman, before the charges were dropped when the claimant decided not to drop out of the process - although she did not take back the accusation.

In a statement, Munster rugby said: “Munster Rugby is aware of a historical matter concerning newly appointed coach Roger Randle from 1997. At the time, no legal process was pursued, and the matter was closed. Munster Rugby carried out due diligence during this recruitment process and are satisfied with the appointment which has been ratified and approved.”

On his new move, Randle said: "I am incredibly excited to be joining a prestigious club like Munster who have such a rich history and incredible supporters.

"I’m really looking forward to reuniting with Clayton but my focus for now is on the Chiefs and having a successful end to the season."

McMillan added: "I'm very pleased that Roger will be joining Munster Rugby this Summer. I have worked with Roger for many years, and he has always demonstrated an incredible work-ethic and ingenuity when it comes to the attack aspect of the game.

"We are thrilled to have him come on board and believe he will complement the already excellent work that Mossy Lawler is doing on a day-to-day basis."