The former hooker departs the province with immediate effect
Munster Rugby today confirmed that forwards coach Andi Kyriacou is to leave the province after over three years with the team. The former club hooker becomes the second coach from the 2023 URC title win to leave the club this season.
Kyriacou, who played for Munster back in 2006/07, joined the club in April of 2021 as Elite Player Development Officer. In 2022, following the appointment of Graham Rowntree as the team’s head coach, Kyriacou was promoted to the role of forwards coach ahead of the title winning season.
However, Kyriacou departs the club earlier than anticipated, citing the need to go back home. Speaking to Munster Rugby, Mr. Kyriacou said “However, I have lived apart from my young family for several years now and we felt it timely to continue our rugby journey back in the UK.”
He goes on to add “It has not been an easy decision as Munster is a club very close to my heart and, above all, it’s been a pleasure to be able to coach a group of such impressive young players and men. I’m particularly proud of winning the URC in the 22/23 season, topping the league last year and for all the young players I have helped develop. I wish Munster every success in the future.”
The news comes after a period of turnover at the club following Graham Rowntree’s departure by mutual consent back in October.
Kyriacou’s departure paves the way for a new forwards coach to join the club, however it is unknown as to whether Munster will look for someone in the interim first and wait on a long-term appointment. IRFU’s Alex Codling and Paul O’Connell have been rumoured to help out on an interim basis, if the IRFU approach the issue similarly to Ulster last season when John Fogarty stepped in as they sought a new forwards coach. Current defence coach Denis Leamy and academy coaches Tommy O’Donnell and Seán Cronin will also be linked with the position in the short term.
Munster return to URC action next Saturday night in Thomond Park as they host the Emirates Lions in a crucial must-win game in front of the Limerick faithful.