Appointments Aborted: Roger Randle and Munster Part Ways

Munster Rugby and New Zealand coach Roger Randle mutually agree to cancel his appointment as attack coach after 1997 rape allegations resurface.

By: AXL Media

Published: May 1, 2026, 4:35 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

The Resurfacing of 1997 Allegations

The collapse of the deal follows the renewed public attention surrounding a 1997 rape allegation involving Randle during a Hurricanes tour to South Africa. While Randle was charged at the time, the case never proceeded to trial after the complainant withdrew the charges.

Randle has vehemently maintained his innocence for nearly 30 years. In a statement released through Munster, he expressed deep sadness that "unfounded allegations" had overshadowed the opportunity:

"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."

Internal Turmoil at Munster

The fallout from the initial appointment was swift and severe within the Irish club: