Graham Rowntree ‘can’t wait’ to get started at ‘prestigious Munster’

While the summer of 2018 saw the arrivals of big signings in the form of Joey Carbery and Tadhg Beirne, 2019 will see the introduction of stellar names Stephen Larkham and Graham Rowntree to the Munster coaching ticket.

Rowntree will link up with the squad as Forwards coach once the World Cup finishes as he is currently part of the Georgian coaching team.

Rowntree spoke about the decision to join the club and his excitement for the coming year on the Rugby Pod.

“It came by very quickly. Obviously Felix and Jerry decided not to stay and I spoke to Johann. I’ve known Johann a long time and coached against him when he was with South Africa and I was with England.

Before I knew it, I was over there, meeting everyone and seeing the facilities. It struck me how it felt like my olf club Leicester. A big club, proud, big supporter base.”

“I had a few days over there with my family a few weeks ago. Obviously myself and Stephen Larkham coming in with Johann van Graan.
And before I knew it it was done. And I can’t wait to be honest.

Been over there a few times. I’m living near Keith Wood in Killaloe so I’m looking forward to it.”

Rowntree will bring with him huge experience as a forwards coach, holding the position for almost a decade with England before moving onto Harlequins.

Rowntree is excited about the prospect of joining Munster with scope for improvement as the side look to reach the final of the Champions Cup for the first time after three successive semi-final defeats.

“Munster semi-finals every year and yet they’re still striving. That’s not good enough. Today, we see the Irish World Cup squad announcement and there’s 12 guys in there from Munster. It’s a proud day for the province.”

“I’m looking forward to being part of the prestigious club.”