Van Graan To Take Over As Munster’s New Head Coach

Munster Rugby and the IRFU have confirmed that Johann van Graan will join the province in mid-November, having signed a contract as their head coach until June 2020.

Johann van Graan joins the province from his role as Springboks forwards coach. He played a key role in developing their pack and attack for the 2015 Rugby World Cup where South Africa finished third. In 2009 and 2010 he secured Super Rugby honours with the Bulls, as forwards and attack coach.

Speaking about the appointment, Munster Rugby CEO Garrett Fitzgerald said: “After a worldwide search, we are delighted to secure Johann van Graan as Munster head coach. Rugby was the focal point of this process and in Johann we are getting a recognised rugby intellectual with a proven track record and extensive experience working with a national side. 

“An analyst of the game, his technical ability and interpersonal skills have made him an integral member of the South African rugby landscape for over a decade, and it is now time for an ambitious Johann to make an impact in a new rugby environment.

“We know Johann, together with forwards coach Jerry Flannery and back-line and attack coach Felix Jones, will continue to establish the structures and processes required to bring this Munster team forward in terms of growth and success.”

IRFU Performance Director David Nucifora commented: “Johann is an exciting addition to our coaching team and we are delighted to welcome him to IrishRugby. His track record with the Springboks and the Bulls, in Super Rugby, is impressive and we are confident he will use this experience, and more, to continue the progress in Munster Rugby.”

Looking forward to his new role with the province, van Graan added: “I am immensely excited and honoured to join Munster and to be part of a province with a unique ethos and history dating back 138 years to 1879.

“Some of the words I associate with Munster Rugby are passion, excellence, ambition and integrity, and I feel very fortunate to be handed this opportunity. I am looking forward to working with the Munster players, support staff and supporters on this new journey, and to become part of their community.”

This appointment has resulted in the restructuring of the Munster coaching ticket, with van Graan taking on the same responsibilities as Rassie Erasmus. He will work alongside Erasmus, subject to work permits which the province hope will be attained by mid-November, to ensure a seamless transition.