Munster Rugby#Munster A

Munster was officially founded in 1879, at the same time as Leinster and Ulster, with Connacht being founded ten years later in 1889. The first interprovincial matches between Leinster, Ulster and Munster, however, were held in 1875. The founding of the Munster branch of the IRFU was intended to organise and oversee the game within the province and prevent any club bias by providing neutral selectors for the representative side. In amateur days, the four Irish provinces played against each other in the IRFU Interprovincial Championship and also played touring international sides.

Munster traditionally drew its strength from the clubs of Limerick, with the game popular in the city and widely played at all levels. Teams such as Shannon, Garryowen and Young Munster built up fierce rivalries with one another, helping push standards in the province higher as a result.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/club/3028230/Limerick-rugby-full-of-heroes.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/club/3028230/Limerick-rugby-full-of-heroes.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Limerick rugby full of heroes|date=22 May 2002|work=The Daily Telegraph|access-date=28 August 2021}}{{cbignore}}

Munster has a great tradition of competitiveness and impassioned displays against touring sides. The first touring side to play Munster were the famous Original All Blacks led by Dave Gallaher, who lined out against Munster in the Markets Field, Limerick in November 1905. Munster were defeated that day 33–0. Throughout the years, Munster were to record a number of near-misses and last minute defeats against South Africa, Australia and New Zealand. The first tangible result against a touring side was to come in 1958, when the Wallabies were held to a 3–3 draw in Thomond Park. Munster became the first Irish provincial side to defeat a major touring team when they defeated Australia 11–8 in Musgrave Park, Cork on 25 January 1967. Munster were captained that day by Tom Kiernan.{{cite news|url=https://www.joe.ie/uncategorized/five-matches-between-munster-and-test-sides-12423|title=Munster v The World: 5 memorable matches|work=SportsJOE|access-date=5 August 2023}}{{cite web|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/the-club/about-munster-rugby/history-timeline/page/2/|title=Munster Rugby {{!}} History Timeline|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=5 August 2023}}

{{main|History of rugby union matches between Munster and New Zealand}}

Munster first played the All Blacks in 1905, losing 33–0 on the occasion. They have played each other many times since then. Munster drew with New Zealand 3–3 in 1973 and, in 1978, became, at the time, the only Irish side to have beaten the All Blacks. The 12–0 victory occurred on Tuesday 31 October 1978 at Thomond Park, in front of a crowd of 12,000, though many times that number still claim to have been present, such was the occasion.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/2337205/Munster-savour-slice-of-heaven.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/2337205/Munster-savour-slice-of-heaven.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Munster savour slice of heaven|date=21 May 2006|work=The Daily Telegraph|access-date=28 August 2021}}{{cbignore}} Christy Cantillon scored a try with Tony Ward converting. Ward also added a drop-goal in each half. Until the national team's victory on 5 November 2016, it was the only time an All Blacks team lost to any Irish side in the men's game and forms part of Munster Rugby mythology. A stage play named Alone it Stands (by John Breen) and a book entitled Stand Up and Fight: When Munster Beat the All Blacks by Alan English were both based on the event. Both have been commercially successful; Alone it Stands has had several sell-out runs in Ireland and abroad and Stand Up and Fight was a bestseller in 2005.{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/international/newzealand/3473409/The-day-Munster-shocked-the-All-Blacks-to-the-core-Rugby-Union.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/international/newzealand/3473409/The-day-Munster-shocked-the-All-Blacks-to-the-core-Rugby-Union.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Munster's historic 1978 victory over mighty All Blacks proved a defining moment|date=17 November 2008|work=The Daily Telegraph|access-date=28 August 2021}}{{cbignore}}

The All Blacks returned to Thomond Park in November 2008 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the 1978 match and to celebrate the opening of the new stadium. After 76 minutes of the match, Munster were winning 16–13, but a late try from Joe Rokocoko meant the All Blacks won 18–16.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/alone-they-sit-and-recall-putting-mighty-blacks-to-flight-1.910490|title=Alone they sit and recall putting mighty Blacks to flight|date=15 November 2008|newspaper=The Irish Times|access-date=28 August 2021}}

On 11 November 2016, Munster welcomed the Māori All Blacks to Thomond Park. The Māori players paid tribute to Anthony Foley by placing a jersey with his initials on the halfway line before performing the Haka. Māori captain Ash Dixon then presented the jersey to Foley's sons.{{cite news|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/international/86393153/new-zealand-maori-pay-tribute-to-late-munster-coach-anthony-foley|title=New Zealand Maori pay tribute to late Munster coach Anthony Foley|date=12 November 2016|work=Stuff|access-date=12 November 2016}} Munster went on to win the historic game 27–14.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/magnificent-munster-conquer-maoris/|title=Magnificent Munster Conquer Maoris|date=11 November 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 November 2016}}

On 3 February 2024, Munster hosted a world first 'Clash of Champions' against the Crusaders, the 14-time champions of Super Rugby, at Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork. Munster edged out the Crusaders to win 21–19, having led 14–7 at half-time. The Crusaders were coached by Former Munster Head Coach Rob Penney.{{Cite web |title=Crusaders confirm plans for Northern Tour in February 2024 |url=https://crusaders.co.nz/latest/news/crusaders-announce-pre-season-northern-tour/ |access-date=2024-01-07 |website=Crusaders Rugby |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Geary |first=Sean |date=2023-06-29 |title=A World First For Munster Rugby And Crusaders |url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2023/06/29/a-world-first-for-munster-rugby-and-crusaders/ |access-date=2024-01-07 |website=Munster Rugby |language=en-GB}}

Like the All Blacks, Munster have played Australia many times. They first met in 1947, when Australia won 6–5. Munster claimed their first victory over the Wallabies in 1967 when they won 11–8. In 1992, Australia, then-reigning world champions having won the 1991 Rugby World Cup, visited Munster as part of a European tour. Munster won 22–19 in a rough encounter in Cork. Ten years later, London newspaper The Daily Telegraph recounted part of the legend in a feature on Munster prop Peter Clohessy: "The then Wallabies coach, Bob Dwyer, who was not a man who readily accepted that opposition sides could legitimately score more points than his team, immediately branded the Munster number 3 a 'disgrace'. It had been a typically rugged, robust and memorable Munster triumph, with leather and fists flying on both sides. Clohessy, who wouldn't generally be known for misconduct, was no more guilty than the next man but world champions are not supposed to lose against a hastily assembled Irish provincial XV. There had to be a reason, an excuse, and Dwyer rounded on Clohessy".{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/4777723/Irelands-great-prop-claws-his-way-to-50.html|title=Ireland's great prop claws his way to 50|date=31 January 2002|work=The Daily Telegraph|access-date=5 August 2023|url-access=subscription}}

History repeated itself in 2010 when Munster defeated the Wallabies 15–6, with their Australian fly-half, Paul Warwick, kicking all fifteen points (three penalties and 2 drop goals).{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/my_club/munster/9196601.stm|title=Munster 15-6 Australia|date=16 November 2010|work=BBC Sport|access-date=31 October 2018}} The match was played in ferocious weather, with Munster playing into a gale-force wind and driving rain in the first-half. Indeed, the conditions made the half time score of 6–6 all the more significant, as Australia could neither cope with the weather nor the Munster pressure in the second-half.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/class-of-2010-excel/|title=Class of 2010 Excel|date=17 November 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=3 February 2013}}

Munster have played South Africa much less frequently than they have Australia and New Zealand. The first fixture between the two sides took place on 11 December 1951 in Thomond Park, with the visitors emerging with an 11–6 win after a late try broke the deadlock. South Africa returned to face the province for a second time on 22 December 1960, this time at Musgrave Park. They again secured a narrow win against the province, needing two late scores for a 9–3 win. The third meeting between the sides was less of a close-run thing, with South Africa easing to a 25–9 win in Thomond Park on 11 January 1970.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2022/11/07/previous-meetings-munster-v-south-africa/#post|title=Previous Meetings {{!}} Munster v South Africa|date=7 November 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 November 2022}}{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-41002217.html|title=Munster v South Africa: The history behind the fixture|date=9 November 2022|newspaper=Irish Examiner|access-date=13 November 2022}}

After the GAA Central Council unanimously backed the proposal, Munster confirmed they would face a South Africa XV in a friendly held at Cork GAA's 45,000-capacity Páirc Uí Chaoimh on 10 November 2022. It was the first time Munster have faced a South African national team in the professional era and the first time a game of rugby was held at the stadium.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-south-africa-pairc-ui-chaoimh-rugby-5851165-Aug2022/|title=GAA give green light for Páirc Uí Chaoimh to host Munster-South Africa rugby fixture|date=27 August 2022|work=The42|access-date=29 August 2022}} The match was a 41,400 sell-out at Páirc Uí Chaoimh, making it the largest attendance for a rugby match in the province, and saw Munster secure their first ever win against South Africa in a 28–14 victory. Winger Shane Daly opened the scoring in just the 2nd minute, with fly-half Ben Healy converting to give the home side a 7–0 lead. South Africa hit back in the 12th minute through an Aphelele Fassi try that was converted by Johan Goosen to level the score, but Munster struck back with tries from Simon Zebo and Diarmuid Barron, both converted by Healy, to head into half-time with a 21–7. Munster struck early in the second-half, with fullback Mike Haley scoring after just two minutes and Healy's fourth conversion of the night extending their lead to 28–7. South Africa scored their second try in the 62nd minute when Sikhumbuzo Notshe crossed the try-line, converted by Gianni Lombard, but the visitors were unable to mount a comeback and Munster hung on to earn a famous win.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-secure-historic-victory-over-sa-select-xv/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Secure Historic Victory Over SA Select XV|date=10 November 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 November 2022}}{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-41004179.html|title='That is going to give us a shot in the arm' - Rowntree savours Springbok scalp|date=10 November 2022|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=13 November 2022}}

{{main|Munster in European rugby}}

On 26 August 1995, the International Rugby Board declared rugby union an "open" game, removing all restrictions on payments or benefits to those connected with the game. This was done due to a committee conclusion that having an open game was the only way to end the hypocrisy of shamateurism, and keep control of the sport. The threat to amateur rugby union was mostly prevalent in the Southern hemisphere, particularly in Australia where Super League was threatening to entice players to rugby league with large salaries.Howitt (2005), p.8 In Ireland, the four provincial teams were the only teams to go professional, while their smaller constituent clubs remained amateur.

The 1995–96 season saw the first ever Heineken Cup, a new tournament set up for European clubs. The Irish were allocated three places in the competition, with these places going to Leinster, Munster and Ulster. Munster finally reached the Heineken Cup quarter-finals in 1998–99 Heineken Cup, after three years of not being able to get out of the group stages.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2018/03/29/a-look-back-at-our-nine-previous-home-quarter-finals/|title=A Look Back At Our Previous Home Quarter-Finals|date=29 March 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=5 August 2023}}

Munster's first appearance in the Heineken Cup's final was in the 1999–2000 Heineken Cup, where they lost by one point to Northampton at Twickenham.{{cite news|url=https://www.epcrugby.com/report/the-fifth-heineken-cup-final/#report|title=The Fifth Heineken Cup Final|date=27 May 2000|work=EPC Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} Nevertheless, the season was most memorable with a 31–25 win over Toulouse in Bordeaux.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/story/0,3604,218509,00.html|title=Magnificent Munster savour a vintage Bordeaux|date=8 May 2000|work=The Guardian|access-date=28 August 2021}}

Their good form and bad luck continued in the following season, 2000–01, with a semi-final defeat to Stade Français, again by one point, where a try from John O'Neill was disallowed by the referee, as he deemed the ball to be out over the dead-ball line.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/in_depth/2000/heineken_cup/1289437.stm|title=Munster edged out by Stade|date=21 April 2001|work=BBC Sport|access-date=28 August 2021}} In the 2001–02 Heineken Cup, Munster lost the last match of their pool at Castres, but qualified as best runners-up.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2002/jan/13/rugbyunion.heinekencup200102|title=Sarramea steals it|date=13 January 2002|work=The Guardian|access-date=28 August 2021}} Munster beat Stade Français 16–14 in Paris, the only try of the game coming from Anthony Horgan.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2002/jan/28/rugbyunion.heinekencup200102|title=French morale cast to the wind as Munster blow hot|date=28 January 2002|work=The Guardian|access-date=28 August 2021}} It was then on to Béziers to meet Castres again for the semi-final. Munster were triumphant and went to the final at Millennium Stadium to meet the reigning champions, Leicester.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2002/apr/29/rugbyunion.heinekencup2001021|title=Munster earn their place in the sun|date=29 April 2002|work=The Guardian|access-date=28 August 2021}} Munster lost a tight game remembered as 'the hand of Back' final, as the Leicester flanker used his hand illegally in a scrum when Munster had a last-chance attack.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2002/may/26/rugbyunion.munster|title=Back-hander steals victory|date=26 May 2002|work=The Guardian|access-date=28 August 2021}} Munster also reached the final of the Celtic League in this season, but lost 24–20 to Leinster at Lansdowne Road, Dublin.{{cite news|url=https://www.unitedrugby.com/latest/history/leinster-v-munster-final-flashback|title=Leinster v Munster: Final Flashback|date=26 March 2021|work=United Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}

In 2002–03, Munster reached the quarter-finals after a win against Gloucester, later issued on VHS under the title "The Miracle Match". In this game, Munster needed to win by a margin of at least 27 points and score a minimum of four tries to earn a quarter-final berth. They won 33–6 with four tries in a game that has become part of Munster Rugby folklore.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2003/01/18/munster-crush-gloucester-thomond-park/|title=Munster Crush Gloucester At Thomond Park|date=18 January 2003|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/remembering-munster-s-miracle-match-when-all-players-stood-up-1.3667072|title=Remembering Munster's 'Miracle Match': When 'all players stood up'|date=18 October 2018|newspaper=The Irish Times|access-date=28 August 2021}} They again faced Leicester, this time at the Tigers' home of Welford Road, and defeated the reigning champions to progress to the semi-finals.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2003/04/13/munster-thrash-leicester-at-welford-road/|title=Munster Thrash Leicester at Welford Road|date=13 April 2003|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} They faced Toulouse in the semi-finals and lost out on a place in the final after losing by a single point in France.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2003/04/26/munster-beaten-in-france/|title=Munster Beaten in France|date=26 April 2003|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} In this season, Munster won the Celtic League for the first time, by beating Neath-Swansea Ospreys 37–17 at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2003/02/01/victory-munster-crowned-celtic-league-champions/|title=Victory! – Munster Crowned Celtic League Champions!|date=1 February 2003|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}

In 2003–04 it was more of the same. After an assured performance in the pool stage, Munster defeated Stade Français at Thomond Park to set up a semi-final date with English champions, London Wasps.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2004/04/10/munster-37-32-stade-francais/|title=Munster 37-32 Stade Francais|date=10 April 2004|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} This match has gone down as one of the best Heineken Cup matches of all time. Although leading by 10 points in the second half, and having lost Ronan O'Gara to injury early on, they succumbed to two Wasps tries in injury time, resulting in a Wasps v Toulouse final.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2004/apr/26/rugbyunion.heinekencup2003041|title=Leota finds the final word as Wasps edge an epic|date=26 April 2004|work=The Guardian|access-date=28 August 2021}}{{cite news|url=https://www.balls.ie/rugby/munster-wasps-2004-408816|title=The Iconic Game Which Changed Munster Rugby Forever|date=18 April 2019|work=Balls.ie|access-date=28 August 2021}} Munster finished in a disappointing seventh position in the 2003–04 season of the Celtic League.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2004/05/15/munster-finish-on-a-high/|title=Munster Finish on a High|date=15 May 2004|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}

In 2004–05, after a shaky performance in the pool stage, Munster qualified as 5th seeds and played Biarritz away. The match was played at Real Sociedad's ground, the Anoeta Stadium, in San Sebastián, Spain – the first Heineken Cup game ever played in Spain. Biarritz won 19–10 to avenge a 38–29 defeat at the same stage in 2001.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2005/04/03/brave-munster-out-of-heineken-cup/|title=Brave Munster Out of Heineken Cup|date=3 April 2005|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} Munster finished second in the 2004–05 Celtic League season but won the Celtic Cup, defeating Llanelli Scarlets 27–16 in the final.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2005/05/14/celtic-cup-glory/|title=Celtic Cup Glory|date=15 May 2005|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}

Image:HeinekenCupFinal06MunsterVBiarritz200506SmallByMike.JPG

In 2005–06, Munster qualified to the final of the Heineken Cup, having overcome rivals Leinster 30–6 in the semi-final at Lansdowne Road.{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2006/apr/24/rugbyunion.heinekencup2005062|title =Power and glory with O'Connell as Munster machine mows down Leinster forwards|date=24 April 2006|work=The Guardian|access-date=18 August 2020}} The final was held at the Millennium Stadium against Biarritz. Munster won 23–19 to become European Champions for the first time.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2006/05/20/munster-crowned-european-champions/|title=Munster Crowned European Champions|date=20 May 2006|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} Munster finished one place lower than the previous season in the Celtic League, finishing third overall.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2006/05/27/munster-37-8-cardiff-blues/|title=Munster 37-8 Cardiff Blues|date=27 May 2006|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}

The 2006–07 Heineken Cup was a disappointing tournament for Munster, as they lost their previously unbeaten European record at Thomond Park, losing to Leicester Tigers in the group stages in January 2007,{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2007/jan/22/rugbyunion.heinekencup2006073|title=Bulldozing White shows the Tigers how to turn the tide of Munster history|date=22 January 2007|work=The Guardian|access-date=18 August 2020}} and later lost their quarter-final to Llanelli Scarlets.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/rugby_union/my_club/llanelli_scarlets/6450933.stm|title= Scarlets 24-15 Munster|date=30 March 2007|work=BBC Sport|access-date=18 August 2020}} Munster's performance in the Celtic League was equally disappointing, finishing sixth overall.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-end-on-a-high-note/|title=Munster End On A High Note|date=11 May 2007|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}

In 2007, Munster signed Doug Howlett, the all-time leading try scorer for New Zealand.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2007/08/31/howlett-munster-bound/|title=Howlett Munster Bound|date=31 August 2007|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} Howlett joined the squad after the 2007 Rugby World Cup.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2008/01/02/howlett-looking-forward-to-getting-involved/|title=Howlett Looking Forward To Getting Involved|date=2 January 2008|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} That season's Heineken Cup saw Munster finish top in their group,{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2008/01/20/mighty-munster-do-it-again/|title=Mighty Munster Do It Again|date=20 January 2008|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} and they went on to reach the final for the second time in three years, beating Saracens in the semi-final.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/brave-munster-battle-through/|title=Brave Munster Battle Through|date=28 April 2008|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} The final, again held at the Millennium Stadium, saw Munster defeat Toulouse 16–13 to claim their second Heineken Cup title in 3 years.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-champions-of-europe/|title=Munster Champions of Europe|date=24 May 2008|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-rugby-heineken-idUKL2441473420080524|title=Munster beat Toulouse 16-13 in gripping final|date=24 May 2008|work=Reuters|access-date=28 August 2021}} Munster finished third in the Celtic League in the 2007–08 season. In May 2008, Director of Coaching Declan Kidney left to take up the head coach job with Ireland.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2008/05/07/kidney-confirmed-as-new-ireland-coach/|title=Kidney Confirmed as New Ireland Coach|date=7 May 2008|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} Munster ensured continuity by promoting Australian Tony McGahan to the position from within the coaching setup.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2008/06/18/mcgahan-the-new-munster-coach/|title=McGahan The New Munster Coach|date=18 June 2008|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}

In the 2008–09 Heineken Cup, Munster once again topped their group and hammered Ospreys 43–9 to advance to a semi-final against arch-rivals Leinster.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/heineken-cup-semi-secured/|title=Heineken Cup Semi Secured|date=12 April 2009|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} Many had fancied Munster to become only the second team to win back-to-back Heineken Cups, but a dominant Leinster side gained revenge for their 2006 semi-final defeat against Munster with a 25–6 win in Croke Park, in front of a then-world record 82,208 crowd.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munsters-heineken-journey-ends/|title=Munster's Heineken Journey Ends|date=2 May 2009|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}{{cite news|url=http://en.espn.co.uk/europeancup/rugby/story/96183.html|title=Leinster stun Munster to book final berth|date=2 May 2009|work=ESPN Scrum|access-date=28 August 2021}} Munster clinched the Celtic League for the second time in their history, after their closest challengers Ospreys beat Dragons but failed to claim a bonus point. This handed the title to Munster who could not be overtaken at the top of the table.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2009/04/30/magners-is-munsters/|title=Magners is Munster's|date=30 April 2009|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}

The 2009–10 season saw Munster finish top of their Heineken Cup pool once again. Victories over Northampton Saints, French Top 14 champions Perpignan and Italian side Benetton saw Munster qualify for the Heineken Cup quarter-finals for a record 12th consecutive year.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/the-better-half-makes-all-the-difference/|title=The Better Half Makes All The Difference|date=24 January 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} The match took place at Thomond Park, where Munster played Northampton Saints for the third time that season and won 33–19.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munsters-heineken-cup-continues/|title=Munster's Heineken Cup Continues|date=10 April 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} They lost 18–7 in the semi-finals against Biarritz at the Anoeta.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-way-below-best/|title=Munster Way Below Best|date=3 May 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} Munster came 4th in the Celtic League, but because this season saw the introduction of a play-off system for the top four teams, Munster met and lost 16–6 to Leinster in the play-off semi-final.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2010/05/15/leinster-through-to-magners-final/|title=Leinster Through To Magners Final|date=15 May 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}

The 2010–11 season saw Munster drawn in pool 3 of the Heineken Cup alongside Ospreys, London Irish and Toulon. Munster lost 23–17 away to London Irish,{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-salvage-something#report|title=Munster Salvage Something|date=10 October 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} before defeating Toulon 45–18 at Thomond Park.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/six-try-bonus-point-win-sends-munster-top#report|title=Six Try Bonus Point Win Sends Munster Top|date=17 October 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2010}} Munster defeated Ospreys 22–16,{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-remain-on-track#report|title=Munster Remain On Track|date=13 December 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} but lost the reverse fixture at Liberty Stadium 19–15.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/no-consolation-from-munsters-point#report|title=No Consolation From Munster's Point|date=19 December 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} In round 5 Munster went to Toulon, losing 32–16. As a result, Munster failed to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Heineken Cup for the first time in 13 years.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/out-of-sorts-and-out-of-heineken#report|title=Out Of Sorts And Out Of Heineken|date=17 January 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} Munster won their final pool game, at home to London Irish, 28–14, and qualified for the 2010–11 European Challenge Cup quarter-finals.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/late-try-flurry-seals-bonus-point-win#report|title=Late Try Flurry Seals Bonus Point Win|date=24 January 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} Munster defeated Leinster 24–23 on 2 April 2011 in the Celtic League, ending a run of 5 straight defeats against their provincial rivals.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-front-up#report|title=Munster Front Up|date=3 April 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} Munster beat Brive 42–37 in their Challenge Cup quarter-final to qualify for the semi-final against Harlequins on 30 April.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-show-more-than-a-little-courage#report|title=Munster Show More Than A Little Courage|date=10 April 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} Munster lost the semi-final in Thomond Park 20–12.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-out-of-amlin#report|title=Munster Out Of Amlin|date=30 April 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} Munster finished first in the 2010–11 Celtic League. They beat Ospreys 18–11 in their semi-final to set up a Grand Final with Leinster,{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/barnes-finds-the-gap#report|title=Barnes Finds The Gap|date=15 May 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} which Munster won 19–9, securing a third Celtic League title.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-crowned-magners-league-champions#report|title=Munster Crowned Magners League Champions|date=28 May 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/munster-close-out-season-in-grand-style-1.586154|title=Munster close out season in grand style|date=30 May 2011|newspaper=The Irish Times|access-date=30 May 2011}}

Munster were drawn in pool one for the 2011–12 Heineken Cup, alongside Northampton Saints, Scarlets and Castres. They beat Northampton 23–21 in the first pool game at Thomond Park, after an 83rd minute drop-goal from Ronan O'Gara.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/cometh-the-moment-cometh-the-men#report|title=Cometh The Hour, Cometh The Men|date=13 November 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 November 2011}} In their second pool game, Munster beat Castres 24–27, with O'Gara again scoring an overtime drop-goal to secure victory.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/same-again-thanks-rog#report|title=Same Again Thanks Rog|date=20 November 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 November 2011}} Munster won their third pool game, away to Scarlets, 17–14.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/set-piece-defence-gives-munster-the-edge#report|title=Set-Piece & Defence Gives Munster The Edge|date=11 December 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=11 December 2011}} In the return fixture a week later, Munster won 19–13.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-complete-the-scarlets-job#report|title=Munster Complete The Scarlets Job|date=19 December 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 December 2011}} A 26–10 win over Castres on 14 January 2012 ensured that Munster qualified for the quarter-finals of the 2011–12 Heineken Cup.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/fifth-successive-wins-sees-munster-through#report|title=Fifth Successive Win Sees Munster Through|date=15 January 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=15 January 2012}} Munster ended their 2011–12 Heineken Cup pool fixtures with a 51–36 victory against Northampton Saints, securing the top seed in the quarter-finals and winning 6 out of 6 pool matches for the first time.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-close-the-deal#report|title=Munster Close The Deal|date=22 January 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 January 2012}} Munster lost their quarter-final against Ulster 22–16, losing just their second match at home in the Heineken Cup.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-go-crashing-out#report|title=Munster Go Crashing Out|date=8 April 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 April 2012}} Munster finished third in the 2011–12 Pro12, and played Ospreys away in the play-off semi-finals, losing 45–10.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/no-consolation-of-any-sort-in-this-result#report|title=No Consolation Of Any Sort In This Result|date=12 May 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 May 2012}} It was announced on 22 February 2012 that McGahan would be leaving Munster at the end of the 2011–12 season,{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/17124877|title=Tony McGahan set to leave Munster for Australia at end of season|date=22 February 2012|work=BBC Sport|access-date=22 February 2012}}{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-20184725.html|title=Munster to lose McGahan|date=22 February 2012|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=22 February 2012}} to take up a role of coaching co-ordinator on Australia's management team. Rob Penney, coach of Canterbury and New Zealand U20, was chosen to succeed McGahan, being unveiled as the next Munster coach on 2 May 2012.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2012/05/02/penney-appointed/|title=Penney Appointed|date=2 May 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=3 May 2012}}

Munster were again drawn in pool one for the 2012–13 Heineken Cup, with Saracens, Edinburgh and Racing 92.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2012/06/13/heineken-cup-pools-2012-2013/|title=Heineken Cup Pools 2012/2013|date=13 June 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 June 2012}} The campaign opened with a 22–17 away defeat at the hands of Racing 92.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/defeat-snatched-from-the-jaws-of-victory#report|title=Defeat Snatched From The Jaws Of Victory?|date=13 October 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=21 October 2012}} Munster won their second game, at home to Edinburgh, 33–0.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/end-game-earns-bonus#report|title=End Game Earns Bonus|date=22 October 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 November 2012}} The December back-to-back games began with a home fixture against Saracens, which Munster won 15–9.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-show-their-gritty-side-2#report|title=Munster Show Their Gritty Side|date=10 December 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=12 December 2012}} In the reverse fixture, Munster lost 19–13.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-lose-after-epic-battle#report|title=Munster Lose After Epic Battle|date=17 December 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 December 2012}} In the fifth round of pool fixtures, Munster beat Edinburgh 26–17.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-win-in-murrayfield-2#report|title=Munster Win In Murrayfield|date=13 January 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 January 2013}} Munster had to win their final pool game, against Racing 92, with a try bonus-point to have a chance of qualifying for the quarter-finals. Munster won the game 29–6, scoring five tries, including a hat-trick from Simon Zebo.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-go-through#report|title=Munster Go Through|date=21 January 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}} Leicester Tigers' 9–5 victory over Toulouse ensured that Munster qualified as a second-best runner-up, and they played Harlequins in the quarter-finals. Munster won the quarter-final 18–12,{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/alone-they-stand#report|title=Alone They Stand|date=8 April 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 April 2013}} advancing to the semi-finals, which they lost 16–10 to Clermont on 27 April 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-lose-a-game-of-two-halves#report|title=Munster Lose A Game Of Two Halves|date=28 April 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=29 April 2013}} Munster finished sixth in the 2012–13 Pro12.

Munster were drawn in pool 6 for the 2013–14 Heineken Cup, alongside Perpignan, Edinburgh and Gloucester.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2013/06/05/munster-in-pool-6/|title=Munster In Pool 6|date=5 June 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=5 June 2013}} Edinburgh beat Munster 29–23 in the opening pool fixture on 12 October 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/disappointing-defeat-in-murrayfield#report|title=Disappointing Defeat In Murrayfield|date=12 October 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 October 2013}} In their second pool game on 19 October 2013, Munster beat Gloucester 26–10.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/heineken-cup-win-in-thomond-park#report|title=Heineken Cup Win In Thomond Park|date=19 October 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=3 November 2013}} Munster beat Perpignan 36–8 in round 3,{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-top-of-group-after-bonus-point-win#report|title=Munster Top Of Group After Bonus-Point Win|date=8 December 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}} and, in the round 4 reverse fixture on 14 December 2013, won 18–17 in Perpignan.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-claim-last-gasp-win-in-perpignan#report|title=Munster Claim Last-Gasp Win In Perpignan|date=14 December 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 December 2013}} Munster beat Gloucester 20–7 at Kingsholm on 11 January 2014, a win that secured quarter-final qualification.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/quarter-final-place-secured#report|title=Quarter Final Place Secured|date=12 January 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=12 January 2014}} Munster beat Edinburgh 38–6 on 19 January 2014 in round 6, a bonus-point win that secured a home quarter-final.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/bonus-point-munster-move-into-home-quarters#report|title=Bonus-Point Munster Move Into Home Quarters|date=19 January 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 January 2014}} On 6 February 2014, it was announced that Penney and backs coach Simon Mannix would be leaving Munster at the end of the 2013–14 season.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2014/02/06/move-confirmed-for-coaching-duo/|title=Move Confirmed For Coaching Duo|date=6 February 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=6 February 2014}} Former captain and then-forwards coach Anthony Foley was confirmed as the next Munster coach on 19 February 2014.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2014/02/19/foley-confirmed-as-next-head-coach/|title=Foley Confirmed As Next Head Coach|date=19 February 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=15 April 2014}} In their quarter-final, Munster beat Toulouse 47–23.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/vintage-munster-storm-into-semis/|title=Vintage Munster Storm Into Semis|date=5 April 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=5 April 2014}} Munster lost 24–16 to Toulon in the semi-final on 27 April 2014.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/toulon-end-munsters-european-campaign#report|title=Toulon End Munster's European Campaign|date=27 April 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=27 April 2014}} Munster finished third in the 2013–14 Pro12,{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2014/05/10/rabodirect-pro12-semi-final-confirmed/|title=RaboDirect PRO12 Semi-Final Confirmed|date=10 May 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=11 May 2014}} but lost 16–15 to Glasgow Warriors in the semi–final.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-out-by-narrowest-of-margins#report|title=Munster Out By Narrowest Of Margins|date=16 May 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 May 2014}}

Munster were drawn in pool 1 of the 2014–15 European Rugby Champions Cup, alongside Saracens, Clermont and Sale Sharks.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2014/06/10/munster-in-pool-1-of-champions-cup/|title=Munster in Pool 1 of Champions Cup|date=10 June 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=10 June 2014}} A late drop-goal from Ian Keatley gave Munster a 27–26 away win against Sale Sharks in round 1 on 18 October 2014.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/keatley-kicks-munster-on#report|title=Keatley Kicks Munster On|date=18 October 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=18 October 2014}} Munster beats Saracens 14–3 in round 2 on 24 October 2014.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-overcome-saracens#report|title=Munster Overcome Saracens|date=24 October 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 October 2014}} Clermont beat Munster 16–9 at Thomond Park in round 3 on 6 December 2014, becoming the first French team to beat Munster at their home stadium.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/clermont-claim-win-at-thomond-park#report|title=Clermont Claim Win At Thomond Park|date=6 December 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=6 December 2014}} In the reverse fixture on 14 December 2014, Clermont beat Munster 26–19.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/losing-bonus-point-secured-at-clermont#report|title=Losing Bonus Point Secured At Clermont|date=14 December 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 December 2014}} Saracens beat Munster 33–10 on 17 January 2015 in round 5, a defeat which meant Munster failed to qualify for the knockout stages for only the second time in 17 seasons.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-lose-out-in-london#report|title=Munster Lose Out In London|date=17 January 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 January 2015}} In round 6, Munster beat Sale Sharks 65–10, a win that was their 100th in Europe.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-finish-with-flourish#report|title=Munster Finish With Flourish|date=25 January 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 January 2015}} Munster finished second on the 2014–15 Pro12.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-do-the-job-in-cork#report|title=Munster Do The Job In Cork|date=16 May 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 May 2015}} In the play-off semi-final, Munster beat Ospreys 21–18.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/final-beckons-after-incredible-win#report|title=Final Beckons After Incredible Win|date=23 May 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 May 2015}} Munster were beaten 31–13 by Glasgow Warriors in the 2015 Pro12 Grand Final on 30 May 2015.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-well-beaten-as-warriors-claim-title#report|title=Munster Well Beaten As Warriors Claim Title|date=30 May 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=31 May 2015}}

Munster were drawn in pool 4 of the 2015–16 European Rugby Champions Cup, alongside Stade Français, Leicester Tigers and Benetton.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2015/06/17/munster-drawn-in-pool-4/|title=Muster Drawn In Pool 4|date=17 June 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 June 2015}} On 14 November 2015, Munster beat Treviso 32–7 in their opening pool game.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/job-done-in-thomond#report|title=Job Done In Thomond|date=14 November 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 November 2015}} Munster's second pool game, against Stade Français, was postponed following the November 2015 Paris attacks. The match was scheduled to be played at the Stade Jean-Bouin in Paris.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2015/11/17/stade-francais-fixture-postponed/|title=Stade Francais Fixture Postponed|date=17 November 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=18 November 2015}} Munster lost 31–19 to Leicester Tigers in round 3 on 12 December 2015.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/tigers-pounce-in-thomond#report|title=Tigers Pounce In Thomond|date=12 December 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 December 2015}} In the return fixture on 20 December 2015, Leicester beat Munster 17–6.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/champions-cup-defeat-at-welford-road#report|title=Champions Cup Defeat At Welford Road|date=20 December 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 December 2015}} On 9 January 2016, Munster lost 27–7 to Stade Français in the re-arranged second pool game. A week later, Munster beat Stade Français 26–13.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-bounce-back-in-style-at-thomond#report|title=Munster Bounce Back In Style At Thomond|date=16 January 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 January 2016}} In their final pool game on 24 January 2016, Munster beat Treviso 28–5.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-finish-with-a-flourish#report|title=Munster Finish With A Flourish|date=24 January 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 January 2016}} In April 2016, it was confirmed that former Springbok Rassie Erasmus would be joining Munster as the director of rugby on a three-year contract, beginning on 1 July 2016.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2016/04/25/director-of-rugby-appointed/|title=Director Of Rugby Appointed|date=25 April 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 April 2016}} Munster finished 6th in the 2015–16 Pro12.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/champions-cup-rugby-secured#report|title=Champions Cup Rugby Secured|date=7 May 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=7 May 2016}}

Munster were drawn in pool 1 of the 2016–17 European Rugby Champions Cup, alongside Racing 92, Leicester Tigers and Glasgow Warriors.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2016/06/29/munster-to-face-racing-glasgow-leicester/|title=Munster To Face Racing, Glasgow & Leicester|date=29 June 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=29 June 2016}} In October 2016, Munster's head coach and former captain Anthony Foley died while the team were in Paris for the first pool game against Racing 92. Due to the sad and sudden passing of Foley, the fixture was rescheduled.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2016/10/16/statement-on-the-sudden-passing-of-anthony-foley/|title=Statement On The Sudden Passing Of Anthony Foley|date=16 October 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 October 2016}}{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2016/10/16/garrett-fitzgerald-statement-on-anthony-foley/|title=Garrett Fitzgerald Statement On Anthony Foley|date=16 October 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 October 2016}} On 22 October 2016, in the first game since Foley's death, Munster beat Glasgow 38–17 at a sold-out Thomond Park. Tributes were paid to Foley before, during and after the game and the number 8 jersey was retired for the game, with CJ Stander wearing the number 24 for the occasion.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-do-foley-proud-with-immense-display#report|title=Munster Do Foley Proud With Immense Display|date=22 October 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 October 2016}} On 10 December 2016, Munster beat Leicester 38–0 in round 3 of the Champions Cup.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/magnificent-munster-tame-tigers-in-thomond#report|title=Magnificent Munster Tame Tigers In Thomond|date=10 December 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=10 December 2016}} On 17 December 2016, Leicester won the reverse fixture in Welford Road 18–16 after a last-minute penalty from Owen Williams.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-just-fall-short-in-tigers-thriller#report|title=Munster Just Fall Short In Tigers Thriller|date=17 December 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 December 2016}} On 7 January 2017, in the rescheduled round 1 fixture, Munster beat Racing 92 32–7 away from home. Simon Zebo's opening try was Munster's 400th in European competition.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-deliver-winning-performance#report|title=Munster Deliver Winning Performance|date=7 January 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=7 January 2017}} On 14 January 2017, Munster beat Glasgow 14–12 away from home to secure qualification for the quarter-finals.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-secure-their-place-in-champions-cup-quarter-final#report|title=Munster Secure Their Place In Champions Cup Quarter-Final|date=14 January 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=21 January 2017}} On 21 January 2017, in front of 26,200 spectators in Thomond Park, Munster beat Racing 92 22–10 in round 6 of the pool stage, securing a home quarter-final{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/home-quarter-final-secured#report|title=Home Quarter Final Secured|date=21 January 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 January 2017}} On 1 April 2017, in the quarter-final, Munster beat Toulouse 41–16 to progress to the semi-finals.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-back-in-champions-cup-semi-finals#report|title=Munster Back In Champions Cup Semi Finals|date=1 April 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=2 April 2017}} On 22 April 2017, Munster were beaten 26–10 by defending champions Saracens in the Champions Cup semi-final, which was held in the Aviva Stadium, Dublin.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/memorable-european-run-comes-to-an-end#report|title=Memorable European Run Comes To An End|date=22 April 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 April 2017}} Munster finished 1st after the 22-round regular season of the 2016–17 Pro12, with a record total of 86 points.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-top-pro12-table-with-emphatic-connacht-win#report|title=Munster Top PRO12 Table With Emphatic Connacht Win|date=6 May 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=7 May 2017}}{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2017/05/17/saturday-semi-final-showdown-awaits/|title=Saturday Semi Final Showdown Awaits|date=17 May 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 May 2017}} On 20 May 2017, in their play-off semi-final, Munster beat Ospreys 23–3 in Thomond Park.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-secure-guinness-pro12-final-place#report|title=Munster Secure Guinness PRO12 Final Place|date=21 May 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 May 2017}} 7 days later, in the 2017 Pro12 Grand Final, Munster lost 46–22 to Scarlets.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/aviva-anguish-in-pro12-final#report|title=Aviva Anguish In PRO12 Final|date=27 May 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 May 2017}}

When the draw for the 2017–18 European Rugby Champions Cup was made, Munster were drawn in pool 4 alongside Leicester Tigers, Racing 92 and Castres. It marked the third season in a row in which Munster faced Leicester and the second season in a row in which they will play Racing 92.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2017/06/08/munster-drawn-in-pool-of-champions-cup/|title=Familiar Look To Champions Cup Pool Draw|date=8 June 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 June 2017}} On 30 June 2017, it was confirmed after weeks of speculation that director of rugby Rassie Erasmus and defence coach Jacques Nienaber would leave the province in December of that year.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2017/06/30/coaching-team-announcement/|title=Coaching Team Announcement|date=30 June 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 June 2017}}

In August 2017, Celtic Rugby Limited and the South African Rugby Union confirmed that the two South African teams that had been cut from the southern hemisphere Super Rugby competition, Cheetahs and Southern Kings, would be joining an expanded Pro14 league ahead of the 2017–18 season. Due to the addition of two new teams, the league format was changed to feature two conferences, A and B, with Munster being placed in conference A alongside Cardiff Blues, Ospreys, Glasgow Warriors, Connacht, Cheetahs and Zebre Parma.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/08/01/cheetahs-southern-kings-join-new-pro14/|title=Cheetahs & Southern Kings Join New PRO14|date=1 August 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=29 August 2017}}

In October 2017, Munster confirmed that then-South Africa forwards coach Johann van Graan would join the province in November as their new head coach.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/10/11/munster-rugby-head-coach-appointment/|title=Munster Rugby Head Coach Appointment|date=11 October 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017}} In the same month, it was announced that Munster's all-time leading try scorer, Simon Zebo, would leave the province at the end of the season.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/10/23/zebo-leave-munster/|title=Zebo to Leave Munster|date=23 October 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 October 2017}} In rounds 1 and 2 of the 2017–18 European Rugby Champions Cup in October 2017, Munster drew 17–17 away to Castres before earning a 14–7 win at home to Racing 92.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/honours-even-castres|title=Honours Even In Castres|date=15 October 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 December 2017}}{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/gutsy-win-thomond|title=Gutsy Win in Thomond|date=21 October 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 December 2017}} Erasmus and Nienaber left Munster in early November 2017, with the province confirming their departure on 13 November 2017.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/11/13/munster-bid-farewell-erasmus-nienaber/|title=Munster Bid Farewell To Erasmus & Nienaber|date=13 November 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 December 2017}} Johann van Graan's first official game as Munster's new head coach was a 36–19 win away against Zebre Parma in the Pro14 on 26 November 2017.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/11/21/squad-update-pre-zebre/|title=Squad Update Pre-Zebre|date=21 November 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 December 2017}}{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/bonus-point-win-munster-zebre|title=Bonus-Point Win For Munster In Zebre|date=26 November 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 December 2017}} {{Rut|Lions}} defence coach JP Ferreira joined Munster in December 2017.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/12/14/jp-ferreira-confirmed-defence-coach/|title=JP Ferreira Confirmed As Defence Coach|date=14 December 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 December 2017}} In the December Champions Cup double-header against Leicester Tigers, Munster won 33–10 at home before winning 25–16 away, their first win at Welford Road for 11 years.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-rugby-v-leinster-tigers-match-report|title=Bonus-Point Win For Munster Over Tigers|date=9 December 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 December 2017}}{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/omahony-leads-munster-famous-win-welford-road/|title=O'Mahony Leads Munster To Famous Win At Welford Road|date=17 December 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 December 2017}} In doing so, Munster became the first team to defeat Leicester in both games of the double-header since they were introduced in 1999, while the home victory also saw Munster surpass 4,000 points in the competition.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2018/01/04/stats-pics-season-far/|title=Stats & Pics: Season So Far|date=4 January 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=5 January 2017}} In rounds 5 and 6 of the Champions Cup, Munster lost 34–30 away to Racing 92 before beating Castres 48–3 at home, securing a record 17th quarter-final.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/narrow-defeat-munster-paris|title=Narrow Defeat For Munster In Paris|date=15 January 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 January 2018}}{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/complete-performance-secures-17th-quarter-final-spot/|title=Complete Performance Secures 17th Quarter-Final Spot|date=21 January 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 January 2018}} Munster beat 3-time tournament champions Toulon 20–19 in the quarter-final after a late Andrew Conway try and conversion from Ian Keatley.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/conway-magic-topples-toulon/|title=Conway Magic Topples Toulon|date=31 March 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=31 March 2018}} In the semi-final, Munster were beaten 27–22 by their French pool 4 opponents Racing 92.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munsters-champions-cup-dream-ends-in-bordeaux/|title=Munster's Champions Cup Dream Ends In Bordeaux|date=22 April 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 April 2018}}

Munster finished 2nd in conference A of the 2017–18 Pro14 season on 69 points. In their semi-final qualifier against Edinburgh on 5 May 2018, Munster won 20–16 to progress to a semi-final away from home.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-edinburgh/|title=Munster Into PRO14 Semi-Finals After Edging Out Edinburgh|date=5 May 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=6 May 2018}} In the semi-final against recently crowned Champions Cup winners and arch-rivals Leinster on 19 May 2018, Munster lost 16–15, bringing to an end their 2017–18 season.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-lose-semi-final-to-leinster-by-a-point/|title=Munster Lose Semi-Final To Leinster By A Point|date=19 May 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 May 2018}}

Munster played two pre-season fixtures ahead of the 2018–19 campaign, the first against London Irish, whose directory of rugby was former Munster and Ireland head coach Declan Kidney, and the second against Exeter Chiefs, which was the first meeting between the two clubs.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2018/05/29/munster-to-host-london-irish-exeter-chiefs-in-august/|title=Munster To Host London Irish & Exeter Chiefs In August|date=29 May 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=29 May 2018}} Munster beat London Irish 32–28, but lost 12–0 against Exeter Chiefs.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-edge-past-london-irish-in-cork-2/|title=Munster Edge Past London Irish In Cork|date=17 August 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=18 August 2018}}{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report_nostats/match-report-munster-0-12-exeter-chiefs/|title=Match Report: Munster 0-12 Exeter Chiefs|date=24 August 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 August 2018}}

Drawn alongside French Top 14 champions Castres and English sides Exeter Chiefs and Gloucester, Munster competed in pool 2 of the 2018–19 European Rugby Champions Cup.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2018/06/20/tough-draw-for-munster-in-champions-cup/|title=Tough Draw For Munster In Champions Cup|date=20 June 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 June 2018}} Munster opened their 2018–19 Pro14 season with a six-try 38–0 victory against South African side Cheetahs in Thomond Park on 1 September 2018. Rory Scannell, Dave Kilcoyne, Tommy O'Donnell, JJ Hanrahan, Dave O'Callaghan and Man-of-the-Match Darren Sweetnam scored the tries, with Hanrahan adding four conversions, in a match that saw Arno Botha, Mike Haley, Joey Carbery and academy players Shane Daly and Gavin Coombes make their competitive debuts for the province, whilst Neil Cronin also made his first appearance for Munster since March 2015.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/match-report-winning-start-at-thomond-park/|title=Match Report | Winning Start at Thomond Park|date=1 September 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=1 September 2018}}

Tadhg Beirne made his debut for Munster in the provinces 25–10 defeat away to Glasgow Warriors on 7 September 2018.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/match-report-munster-fall-to-defeat-in-glasgow/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Fall To Defeat In Glasgow|date=7 September 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 September 2018}} Munster's 64–7 win against Ulster on 29 September 2018 was a record win for the province in the Pro14; Munster's previous record win being 47–0 against Zebre Parma in 2016.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-record-win-for-munster-over-ulster/|title=Report {{!}} Record PRO14 Win For Munster Over Ulster|date=29 September 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 September 2018}} In round one of the 2018–19 Champions Cup on 13 October 2018, a try from Stander and five points from the boot of Joey Carbery secured a 10–10 draw in Sandy Park against Exeter Chiefs, in a match in which Dan Goggin and Neil Cronin made their competitive European debuts, whilst Tadhg Beirne, who was Man-of-the-Match, Mike Haley and Joey Carbery made their European debuts for Munster.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-draw-against-exeter-chiefs/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Draw Against Exeter Chiefs|date=13 October 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 October 2018}} One week later, tries from Mike Haley, Rhys Marshall, Joey Carbery, who also kicked four conversions and one penalty in a Man-of-the-Match performance, Sammy Arnold and Andrew Conway helped Munster to a 36–22 bonus-point victory at home against Gloucester.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-bonus-point-win-over-gloucester-at-thomond/|title=Report {{!}} Bonus-Point Win Over Gloucester At Thomond|date=20 October 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 October 2018}}

In the December 2018 back-to-back Champions Cup fixtures against Castres, Munster won 30–5 in round 3 on 9 December, with tries from Rory Scannell, Stander and JJ Hanrahan, who also scored 15 points off the kicking tee. In the return leg away to Castres on 15 December, the French side won 13–12, with Joey Carbery scoring all of Munster's points from penalties.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-hanrahan-leads-munster-to-castres-win|title=Report {{!}} Hanrahan Leads Munster To Castres Win|date=9 December 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=15 December 2018}}{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-losing-bonus-point-for-munster-in-castres/|title=Report {{!}} Losing Bonus Point For Munster In Castres|date=15 December 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=15 December 2018}} In round 5 of the Champions Cup, Munster beat Gloucester 41–15 away from home on 11 January 2019, with the tries coming from Joey Carbery (2), Rory Scannell, Keith Earls and Andrew Conway and 16 points of the kicking tee from Carbery.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-bonus-point-win-at-kingsholm/|title=Report {{!}} Bonus-Point Win At Kingsholm|date=11 January 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 January 2019}} In round 6, Munster beat Exeter Chiefs 9–7 in Thomond Park on 19 January 2019 to advance to a record 18th Champions Cup quarter-final. Joey Carbery scored all of Munster's points from penalties in a closely fought, physical game.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-into-18th-european-quarter-final/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Into 18th European Quarter-Final|date=19 January 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 January 2019}} Munster defeated Edinburgh 17–13 in their quarter-final in Murrayfield Stadium on 30 March 2019 to advance to a 14th Champions Cup semi-final,{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-into-14th-european-semi-final/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Into 14th European Semi-Final|date=30 March 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 March 2019}} which Munster lost 32–16 to Saracens in the Ricoh Arena on 20 April 2019.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-defeated-by-saracens-in-coventry/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Defeated By Saracens In Coventry|date=20 April 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 April 2019}}

Munster finished second in conference A in the 2018–19 Pro14 season, with 21 wins and 5 defeats,{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-set-up-benetton-quarter-final|title=Report {{!}} Munster Set Up Benetton Quarter-Final|date=27 April 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=27 April 2019}} and beat Italian side Benetton 15–13 in their quarter-final on 4 May 2019, to secure a semi-final against provincial rivals Leinster in the RDS on 18 May 2019.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-late-hanrahan-penalty-earns-semi-final-place/|title=Report {{!}} Late Hanrahan Penalty Earns Semi-Final Place|date=4 May 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=4 May 2019}} which Leinster won 24–9, bringing to an end Munster's 2018–19 season.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-fall-to-guinness-pro14-semi-final-defeat/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Fall To Guinness PRO14 Semi-Final Defeat|date=18 May 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=18 May 2019}}

Backs coach Felix Jones and forwards coach Jerry Flannery left the province when their contracts expired in June 2019.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2019/05/07/coaching-duo-to-leave-the-province/|title=Coaching Duo To Leave The Province|date=7 May 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 May 2019}} Graham Rowntree joined the province as their new forwards coach after the completion of his duties with Georgia at the 2019 Rugby World Cup.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2019/06/04/graham-rowntree-to-join-munster-rugby/|title=Graham Rowntree To Join Munster Rugby|date=4 June 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=4 June 2019}} Stephen Larkham, attack coach for the Australian national team, also joined the province as a senior coach ahead of the 2019–20 season.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2019/06/14/stephen-larkham-to-join-munster-rugby/|title=Stephen Larkham To Join Munster Rugby|date=14 June 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 June 2019}}

Club legend and head of commercial and marketing, Doug Howlett, also left the province to return to New Zealand in the summer of 2019, ending his 11-year association with Munster.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2019/05/20/howlett-to-return-to-new-zealand/|title=Doug Howlett To Return To New Zealand|date=20 May 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=21 May 2019}} Munster's CEO Garrett Fitzgerald retired upon reaching retirement age in June 2019. Fitzgerald was Munster's first CEO and had been in the post since 1999, making him the longest serving provincial chief executive in Irish rugby at the time.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2019/05/30/garrett-fitzgerald-retirement-confirmed/|title=Garrett Fitzgerald Retirement Confirmed|date=30 May 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 May 2019}} Ian Flanagan, who was born in Cork and previously worked at Leicester City F.C, was appointed to replace Fitzgerald.

In a change from the previous two seasons, Munster were in conference B for the 2019–20 Pro14 season, alongside Benetton, Cardiff Blues, Connacht, Edinburgh, Scarlets and Southern Kings. This will also be the case for the 2020–21 season, and the change was made based on the points total each club achieved after the completion of the regular 2018–19 season.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2019/06/17/conferences-confirmed-for-next-two-guinness-pro14-seasons/|title=Conferences Confirmed For Next Two Guinness PRO14 Seasons|date=17 June 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 June 2019}}

Munster were seeded in tier 2 when the draw for the 2019–20 European Rugby Champions Cup was made in Lausanne, Switzerland on Wednesday 19 June 2019,{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2019/06/17/key-details-dates-for-next-seasons-champions-cup/|title=Key Details & Fixture Dates For Next Season's Champions Cup|date=17 June 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 June 2019}} and were drawn in pool 4 alongside defending champions Saracens, Racing 92, who count former Munster players Donnacha Ryan and Simon Zebo amongst their squad, and fellow Pro14 side Ospreys.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2019/06/19/munster-face-tough-champions-cup-opposition/|title=Munster Face Tough Champions Cup Opposition|date=19 June 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 June 2019}}

Munster opened their 2019–20 Pro14 season with a 39–9 home victory against Welsh side Dragons on 28 September 2019, with the tries coming from Arno Botha, Jack O'Donoghue, Man-of-the-Match Shane Daly, Tyler Bleyendaal and academy member Diarmuid Barron, and fly-half JJ Hanrahan contributing 14 points off the kicking tee. New signing Nick McCarthy and academy members Keynan Knox and Jack O'Sullivan all made their senior competitive debuts for the province, and hooker Kevin O'Byrne won his 50th cap.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-bonus-point-win-over-dragons-at-thomond/|title=Report {{!}} Bonus-Point Win Over Dragons At Thomond|date=28 September 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 September 2019}} Short-term signing Jed Holloway made his debut for the province in their 31–20 away win against South African side Southern Kings on 5 October 2019.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-bonus-point-win-for-munster-against-southern-kings/|title=Report {{!}} Bonus Point Win For Munster Against Southern Kings|date=5 October 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=6 October 2019}}

In the opening two rounds of the 2019–20 Champions Cup, Munster beat Welsh Pro14 rivals Ospreys 32–13 away from home on 16 November 2019, with tries from Jeremy Loughman, Keith Earls, Andrew Conway and James Cronin and twelve points off the kicking tee from Tyler Bleyendaal,{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-last-gasp-cronin-try-hands-munster-bonus-point|title=Report {{!}} Last-Gasp Cronin Try Hands Munster Bonus Point Victory|date=16 November 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 November 2019}} before drawing 21–21 at home against French side Racing 92 on 23 November 2019; Munster's tries came from Keith Earls and Andrew Conway, and JJ Hanrahan contributed eleven points with the boot. The draw was Munster's first at home in the Champions Cup, against a Racing side that included former Munster players Donnacha Ryan and Simon Zebo in their starting XV.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-hanrahan-conversion-saves-draw-against-racing/|title=Report {{!}} Hanrahan Conversion Saves Thrilling Draw Against Racing|date=23 November 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 November 2019}}

Prop Stephen Archer won his 200th cap for Munster in their 2019–20 Pro14 round 7 fixture against Edinburgh on 29 November 2019, becoming the eleventh player to achieve the accolade for the province. Academy fly-half Ben Healy made his debut for Munster during the same game, scoring 11 points in the 18–16 defeat to the Scottish side.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-suffer-narrow-edinburgh-defeat/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Suffer Narrow Edinburgh Defeat|date=29 November 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 November 2019}}

In the Champions Cup back-to-backs against defending champions Saracens, Munster won 10–3 at home on 7 December 2019, with the English side picking up a losing bonus point.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-secure-vital-victory-over-saracens/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Secure Vital Victory Over Saracens|date=7 December 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 December 2019}} In the return fixture one week later, Munster were beaten 15–6, with two tries in the final quarter securing the win for Saracens and denying Munster a losing bonus point.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-late-saracens-tries-deny-munster/|title=Report {{!}} Late Saracens Tries Deny Munster|date=14 December 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 December 2019}}

Following an incident that triggered a large brawl in Munster's second fixture against Saracens in December 2019 and a complaint to the EPCR from Saracens, in which Munster team doctor Jamie Kearns was accused of verbally abusing Saracens hooker Jamie George, an independent panel upheld the complaint and found that Kearns had breached the EPCR's disciplinary rules, handing Kearns a three-week ban, suspended for 12 months, and a fine of €2,000 to be paid immediately.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/jamie-kearns-munster-doctor-jamie-george-fined-suspended-4950543-Dec2019/|title=Munster team doctor fined and handed three-week suspended ban following Saracens row|date=31 December 2019|work=The42|access-date=1 January 2020}}

Munster went into their round 5 Champions Cup clash away to Racing 92 on 12 January 2020 knowing that they had to win to keep alive their hopes of progressing to the quarter-finals of the tournament, but despite leading the French club with ten minutes to go, late tries from Racing secured a 39–22 win for the home side.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-late-tries-deny-munster-in-paris|title=Report {{!}} Late Tries Deny Munster In Paris|date=12 January 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 January 2020}} Munster needed results elsewhere to go their way if they were to stand any chance of qualifying for the quarter-finals as the final round of pool matches took place, but Glasgow Warriors 45–7 win against Sale Sharks ended those hopes before Munster's final game against Ospreys had even taken place.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-champions-cup-4970952-Jan2020/|title=Glasgow victory confirms Munster's Champions Cup exit|date=18 January 2020|work=The42|access-date=19 January 2020}} In the event, Munster won 33–6 against Ospreys, with Craig Casey, who made his European debut for the province in the defeat to Racing, scoring his first try for Munster, and Calvin Nash, Jack O'Sullivan and Ben Healy making their European debuts for the province.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2020/01/19/report-five-try-win-for-munster-over-ospreys/|title=Report {{!}} Five-Try Win For Munster Over Ospreys|date=19 January 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 January 2020}}

Munster's 68–3 win against South African side Southern Kings in round 11 of the Pro14 on 14 February 2020 was a record margin of victory for the province in the competition, and the ten tries scored also set a new record for the province. Academy member John Hodnett made his debut for Munster in the fixture, scoring a try and earning the Man-of-the-Match award.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-secure-record-win-over-southern-kings/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Secure Record Win Over Southern Kings|date=14 February 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=15 February 2020}} The match had an added poignancy for Munster, as their long-serving former CEO, Garrett Fitzgerald, who had only retired in June 2019, died following a battle with illness earlier that day.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2020/02/14/garrett-fitzgerald-passes-away/|title=Garrett Fitzgerald Passes Away|date=14 February 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=15 February 2020}}

The 2019–20 Pro14 was suspended indefinitely by tournament organisers on 12 March 2020 in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/irfu-coronavirus-rugby-postponed-5043855-Mar2020/|title=Pro14 suspended indefinitely as Irish domestic rugby also postponed|date=12 March 2020|work=The42|access-date=12 March 2020}} Munster's round 14 and 15 fixtures against Italian side Benetton had already been postponed.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2020/03/10/munsters-home-game-against-benetton-postponed/|title=Munster's Home Game Against Benetton Postponed|date=10 March 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=12 March 2020}} Tyler Bleyendaal was forced to retire from playing rugby with immediate effect in May 2020 due to a persistent neck injury.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2020/05/20/tyler-bleyendaal-forced-to-retire/|title=Tyler Bleyendaal Forced to Retire|date=20 May 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 May 2020}} In the same month, prop Brian Scott was also forced to retire with immediate effect due to injury.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2020/05/26/brian-scott-to-retire-on-medical-grounds/|title=Brian Scott To Retire On Medical Grounds|date=26 May 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=26 May 2020}} The regular season resumed on 22 August 2020, with the number of rounds reduced from 21 to 15 and any games postponed prior to the indefinite suspension of the season being deemed as 0–0 draws and both teams awarded two points. Rounds 14 and 15 took place as derbies in each territory, with the top two teams in each conference progressing to a semi-final stage.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2020/06/18/target-date-set-for-guinness-pro14-restart/|title=Target Date Set For Guinness PRO14 Restart|date=18 June 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=18 June 2020}}

Munster resumed their season on 22 August 2020 with a fixture against Leinster in the Aviva Stadium, which Leinster won 27–25. Munster handed debuts to new signings Damian de Allende and RG Snyman, though Snyman's first appearance for the province lasted only 7 minutes after he was injured during a lineout. Andrew Conway scored tries either side of Keith Earls' try, with JJ Hanrahan kicking 10 points off the tee, and Chris Farrell won the Man-of-the-Match award.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-narrow-loss-for-munster-in-aviva/|title=Report {{!}} Narrow Loss For Munster In Aviva|date=22 August 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 August 2020}}

Munster completed their reduced 15 round Pro14 regular season with a seven try 49–12 win against Connacht, a victory that secured a semi-final against defending champions and provincial rivals Leinster on 4 September 2020. The tries came from Chris Cloete, Jeremy Loughman, Tadhg Beirne, James Cronin, two from Andrew Conway and a penalty try, with JJ Hanrahan kicking all five of his conversions and Rory Scannell converting the final try. As well as getting on the scoresheet, Tadhg Beirne also won the Man-of-the-Match award on his first game back after fracturing an ankle against Saracens in December 2019.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-seven-try-win-for-munster-over-connacht/|title=Report {{!}} Seven-Try Win For Munster Over Connacht|date=30 August 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 August 2020}} Leinster won the semi-final 13–3, knocking Munster out at the semi-final stage of the Pro14 for the third season in a row.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-bow-out-of-guinness-pro14/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Bow Out Of Guinness PRO14|date=4 September 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=4 September 2020}}

Munster opened their 2020–21 Pro14 season with a 30–27 away win against Scarlets on 3 October 2020. Despite nine penalties from Scarlets fullback Leigh Halfpenny and a red card for captain Peter O'Mahony, tries from Jack O'Donoghue and Chris Farrell kept Munster within touching distance of the hosts, and a try from replacement hooker Kevin O'Byrne, converted by Ben Healy, levelled the score going into the final minutes of the game, before academy fly-half Healy scored a 50-metre penalty in the 81st minute to earn what had previously looked like an unlikely win for the province.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-healy-caps-incredible-comeback-for-14-man-munster/|title=Report {{!}} Healy Caps Incredible Comeback For 14-Man Munster|date=3 October 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=4 October 2020}}

Munster's 2020–21 Champions Cup campaign commenced with a 21–7 home win against Harlequins on 13 December 2020, in which Gavin Coombes, Damian de Allende and Josh Wycherley made their tournament debuts. Coombes scored one try, with the other being a penalty try, with JJ Hanrahan and Ben Healy adding nine points of the kicking tee between them.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-make-winning-start-to-champions-cup#report|title=Report {{!}} Munster Make Winning Start To Champions Cup|date=13 December 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 December 2020}} Munster travelled away to Clermont for round two on 19 December 2020 and, despite trailing 28–9 to the home side at one point, fought back to earn a stunning 39–31 win at the Stade Marcel-Michelin. The tries for Munster came from Mike Haley, star-of-the-match CJ Stander and Kevin O'Byrne, with JJ Hanrahan scoring a perfect nine from nine off the kicking tee for the other 24 points.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/match-report-munster-secure-dramatic-victory-in-clermont/|title=Match Report {{!}} Munster Secure Dramatic Comeback Victory In Clermont|date=19 December 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 December 2020}}

In early January 2021, the EPCR took the decision to temporarily suspend rounds 3 and 4 of the 2020–21 Champions Cup, following a directive from authorities in France that French clubs should not participate in the scheduled matches in response to health risks posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/epcr-suspended-champions-cup-5322183-Jan2021/|title=EPCR confirms suspension of Champions Cup and Challenge Cup|date=11 January 2021|work=The42|access-date=14 January 2021}}

Munster's 20–17 win against Connacht in round 14 of the 2020–21 Pro14 on 5 March 2021 saw them become the first team to qualify for 2021 Pro14 Grand Final, as the victory gave them an unassailable 12 point lead at the top of conference B with two rounds remaining.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-into-guinness-pro14-final/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Into Guinness PRO14 Final|date=5 March 2021|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=6 March 2021}} Munster were beaten 16–6 by arch-rivals Leinster in the 2021 Pro14 Grand Final on 27 March 2021.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-guinness-pro14-final/|title=Report {{!}} Guinness PRO14 Final|date=27 March 2021|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=27 March 2021}}

The Champions Cup resumed on the weekend of 2/3/4 April 2021 with the top eight teams from each pool at the time of suspension progressing to the round of 16, where Munster had home advantage thanks to their wins in the opening games against Harlequins and Clermont.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2021/02/24/home-advantage-for-munster-in-champions-cup/#post|title=Home Advantage For Munster In Champions Cup|date=24 February 2021|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=26 February 2021}} Munster were drawn against Toulouse.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2021/03/09/draw-champions-cup-round-of-16-quarter-final/|title=Munster To Face Toulouse In Champions Cup Knock-Outs|date=9 March 2021|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=9 March 2021}}

In an enthralling encounter at Thomond Park, Munster led 16–9 at half-time thanks to two tries from Keith Earls and two penalties from Joey Carbery, but Toulouse pulled level thanks to a converted try from Matthis Lebel. Gavin Coombes scored from close-range to give Munster the lead again, before Toulouse captain Julien Marchand responded with a try to level the scores again at 23–23. Substitute fly-half JJ Hanrahan scored a penalty to give Munster a 26–23 lead heading into the final 15 minutes of the match, but Toulouse's talismanic scrum-half Antoine Dupont scored two tries in 9 minutes to help the French club pull away on the scoreboard. A late consolation try from Gavin Coombes, his second of the match, in overtime meant the final score was 40–33 to Toulouse, who became just the second French club to win a European match at Thomond Park and advanced to an away quarter-final against Munster's pool opponents Clermont.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40257980.html|title=Toulouse run in four second-half tries to send Munster out of Champions Cup|date=3 April 2021|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=3 April 2021}}

Munster opened their 2021–22 United Rugby Championship campaign with a bonus-point 42–17 win against the Sharks, one of the four new South African teams, on 25 September 2021. Simon Zebo, making his return for the province, scored two tries, extending his club record to 62, with Gavin Coombes continuing his try-scoring exploits from the previous season with two tries of his own. Chris Cloete and player of the match Craig Casey also crossed the try line. Fly-half Joey Carbery scored seven points off the kicking tee, with his replacement Ben Healy contributing five points off the tee in the second-half. RG Snyman made his eagerly-awaited return from long-term injury as a second-half replacement, and scrum-half Rowan Osborne made his competitive debut for the province, in a match that saw fans return to Thomond Park for the first time since February 2020.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-start-season-with-bonus-point-win-over-sharks/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Start Season With Bonus-Point Win Over Sharks|date=25 September 2021|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 September 2021}}

Munster were in South Africa for rounds 6 and 7 of the United Rugby Championship, in which they were due to play the {{rut|Bulls}} and the {{rut|Lions}}, however, the emergence of the omicron variant of COVID-19 led to travel restrictions being implemented by UK and EU authorities, meaning the fixtures had to be postponed.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40753869.html|title=Munster in race to get out of South Africa as Champions Cup opener against Wasps in doubt|date=26 November 2021|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=27 November 2021}} 34 players and staff arrived back in Ireland on 1 December 2021 and immediately entered 10 days of mandatory self-isolation. 14 players and staff who had tested positive for COVID-19 had to remain in South Africa.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2021/12/01/34-munster-players-staff-arrive-home/#post|title=34 Munster Players & Staff Arrive Home|date=1 December 2021|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=3 December 2021}}

In the wake of this disruption for Munster and other clubs, and with Munster's opening Champions Cup fixture away to Wasps falling on 12 December, the EPCR extended the deadline for registering players for the tournament to 8 December, meaning Munster could look to supplement their squad with short-term signings,{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40757928.html|title=Munster may look at new signings as registration date for Champions Cup extended|date=2 December 2021|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=3 December 2021}}{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-wasps-champions-cup-5615156-Nov2021/|title=All indications are that Munster's clash with Wasps will go ahead as scheduled|date=29 November 2021|work=The42|access-date=3 December 2021}} and 22 players were subsequently registered with the province's Champions Cup squad.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-squad-registration-champions-cup-5623052-Dec2021/|title=Munster to register 22 new players for Champions Cup squad|date=7 December 2021|work=The42|access-date=7 December 2021}}

A depleted Munster squad made up of internationals who'd been away with Ireland during the Autumn tests, academy players and members of the national and provincial talent squads travelled over to England to face Wasps on their opening Champions Cup fixture on 12 December 2021. The team, which featured 12 debutantes, pulled off one of the great Munster away victories, defeating their opponents 35–14 in a thrilling contest in front of a large contingent of Munster fans who had made the journey to Coventry.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-wasps-2021-report-5627863-Dec2021/|title=Munster's young guns thrill in wild and wonderful bonus-point win over Wasps|date=12 December 2021|work=The42|access-date=12 December 2021}}

Munster made it back-to-back wins in the Champions Cup with a gritty 19–13 win at home against French club Castres on 18 December 2021, with a 58th minute try from number 8 Jack O'Donoghue and 14 points off the tee from fly-half Ben Healy being enough for the province to see off their opposition.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40769109.html|title=Munster grind out Champions Cup victory over dogged Castres|date=18 December 2021|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=19 December 2021}}

In the reverse fixture against Castres in round 3 of the Champions Cup on 14 January 2022, Munster earned a 16–13 away win thanks to a 77th minute try from Gavin Coombes, converted by rookie fly-half Jack Crowley, who was faultless off the kicking tee in his first European start for the province. The win secured a place in the knockout stage of the tournament for Munster.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-coombes-strikes-late-as-munster-win-in-france/|title=Report {{!}} Coombes Strikes Late As Munster Win In France|date=14 January 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=15 January 2022}} Nine days later, Munster followed up their away win against Castres with a 45–7 home win against Wasps, with the tries coming from Jeremy Loughman, Conor Murray, Jack O'Donoghue, who was player of the match on the occasion of his 150th cap for Munster, Rory Scannell and Simon Zebo, who scored a brace to become Munster's all-time leading try-scorer in the Champions Cup and the leading Irish try-scorer in the competition overall. Fly-half Ben Healy and his replacement on the day, Jack Crowley, were both 100% from the kicking tee, with Healy scoring four conversions and a penalty, and Crowley adding two late conversions. The win secured home advantage for Munster in the second leg of the round of 16.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40791522.html|title=Impressive Munster romp into last 16 with convincing win over Wasps|date=23 January 2022|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=23 January 2022}}

Munster faced English club Exeter Chiefs in the round of 16,{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2022/01/23/munster-to-face-exeter-chiefs-in-champions-cup/|title=Munster To Face Exeter Chiefs In Champions Cup|date=23 January 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 January 2022}} and lost the first leg of the tie 13–8 away to the Premiership club on 9 April 2022. Exeter took a 10–0 lead in to half-time after tries from Stuart Hogg and Jacques Vermeulen, before Munster fly-half Ben Healy hit back with a penalty to reduce the home sides lead. Hogg responded for Exeter with a drop-goal, but a 66th minute try from Shane Daly brought Munster back within touching distance on the scoreboard, and Exeter had to withstand some intense offensive play from Munster going into the final ten minutes, with replacement scrum-half Craig Casey almost drawing the scores level, before the hosts themselves assaulted the Munster try-line in the last minutes of the match in an ultimately unsuccessful attempt to extend their lead.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-exeter-take-13-8-advantage-to-thomond/#report|title=Report {{!}} Exeter Take 13-8 Advantage To Thomond|date=9 April 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 April 2022}}

Needing to overturn a five-point deficit to advance in the competition, Munster welcomed Exeter to Thomond Park for the second leg of their last 16 tie one week later. Fly-half Joey Carbery, returning from injury, opened the scoring for the hosts with a penalty, but the visitors responded with their first try of the game to take an early 5–3 lead, before Carbery struck back for Munster with a try of his own, to which he added a second penalty to give Munster a 13–5 half-time lead. Exeter struck first in the second-half with a try in the 47th minute, but Carbery kept Munster in front with two further penalties, before centre Damian de Allende scored a 74th minute try to secure a 26–10 home win for Munster and a 34–23 victory on aggregate, ensuring Munster progressed to a record 19th Champions Cup quarter-final.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-into-19th-champions-cup-quarter-final/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Into 19th Champions Cup Quarter-Final|date=16 April 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 April 2022}}

Facing defending champions Toulouse, who knocked the province out of the previous season's tournament, in the quarter-final,{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-toulouse-thomond-park-5740676-Apr2022/|title=Exeter feel full force of Thomond Park effect, as Munster set to hit the road for Toulouse 'home' game|date=17 April 2022|work=The42|access-date=17 April 2022}} Munster began strongly with an 11th minute Alex Kendellen try, converted by Joey Carbery to lead 7–0, but Romain Ntamack hit back for Toulouse two minutes later with a try of his own, converted by Thomas Ramos, to level the scores. The visitors were dominating the scrum and scored their second try in the 25th minute when Matthis Lebel touched down, with Ramos again converting to give Toulouse a 14–7 lead. However, Munster struck back with a Keith Earls try just before half-time which Carbery converted to leave the scores level heading into the break. The home side came out firing in the second-half, with Mike Haley scoring a 43rd minute try, again converted by Carbery, to give Munster a 21–14 lead, which Carbery extended with a penalty in the 56th minute, but Toulouse responded with Lebel's second try in the 66th minute which, when converted by Ramos, reduced the margin to just three points heading into the final ten minutes. A 75th-minute penalty from Ramos levelled the scores at 24–24, and that remained the score at full-time after Ben Healy missed with a 56-metre penalty attempt in the final minute of normal time.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-lose-place-kicking-competition-as-toulouse-advance/|title=Munster Lose Place-Kicking Competition As Toulouse Advance|date=7 May 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 May 2022}}

With the scores level at full-time and as both teams scored three tries, extra time ensued, played over two ten-minute halves, but even after that the two teams could not be separated after three missed drop goals between the two, and the game went to a penalty shootout. Munster went first and Conor Murray scored his penalty. Antoine Dupont responded successfully for Toulouse, but Ben Healy missed his first attempt, and when Thomas Ramos scored his penalty, it was advantage Toulouse. Carbery scored his penalty, but Romain Ntamack scored his own to restore Toulouse's lead. Murray missed with his second attempt, whilst Dupont was successful with his own to give Toulouse a 4–2 lead, meaning Healy had to score with his second attempt to give Munster any hope, but he was unable to do so, and Toulouse advanced to the semi-finals, knocking Munster out of the competition for the second season in a row.

A 35–25 defeat away to Leinster in round 18 of the 2021–22 United Rugby Championship meant that Munster finished sixth in the league overall, and third in the Irish Shield,{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-beaten-by-leinster/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Beaten By Leinster|date=21 May 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 May 2022}} and the province headed north to face Ulster in the quarter-finals on 3 June 2022, but Munster lost 36–17 to bring the curtain down on their 2021–22 season, as well as Johann van Graan's tenure as head coach.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-lose-to-ulster-in-belfast/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Lose To Ulster In Belfast|date=3 June 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=3 June 2022}}

Head coach Johann van Graan, who joined Munster in November 2017, confirmed in December 2021 that he would be leaving the province at the end of the 2021–22 season to join English club Bath. In addition to this, senior coach Stephen Larkham also left the province to return home to Australia to become head coach of the Brumbies, and defence coach JP Ferreira followed van Graan to join Bath. However, forwards coach Graham Rowntree extended his stay with the province by a further two years,{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40845080.html|title=Peter O'Mahony admits coaching uncertainty 'not ideal'|date=6 April 2022|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=9 April 2022}} and the province confirmed in April 2022 that Rowntree would be promoted to head coach from the 2022–23 season.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2022/04/12/graham-rowntree-confirmed-as-next-munster-head-coach/|title=Graham Rowntree Confirmed As Next Munster Head Coach|date=12 April 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=12 April 2022}} Mike Prendergast, a former scrum-half for the province, joined Rowntree's coaching setup as the attack coach on a three-year contract, having most recently fulfilled a similar role for French club Racing 92.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/mike-prendergast-munster-5754910-May2022/|title='A family choice' - Mike Prendergast joins Rowntree at Munster|date=4 May 2022|work=The42|access-date=4 May 2022}} Andi Kyriacou, who had joined the province in April 2021 as an elite player development officer with the academy, was promoted to forwards coach with the senior squad on a two-year contract,{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/andi-kyriacou-munster-forwards-coach-5761982-May2022/|title=Andi Kyriacou confirmed as Munster forwards coach under Rowntree|date=12 May 2022|work=The42|access-date=12 May 2022}} and former Munster player Denis Leamy returned to the province as defence coach on a three-year contract.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40885934.html|title=Denis Leamy to return to Munster as defence coach|date=1 June 2022|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=1 June 2022}}

After a poor start to the season, Munster won the 2022–23 United Rugby Championship after beating defending champions the Stormers 19–14 away from home in the final on 27 May 2023. In doing so, Munster ended a trophy drought that had lasted since their previous league title during the 2010–11 season, and secured the first silverware of Graham Rowntree's reign as head coach.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-41149351.html|title=Magical Munster see off Stormers to win URC title and end trophy drought|date=27 May 2023|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=27 May 2023}}

Gold background denotes champions
Silver background denotes runner-up

* After dropping into the competition from the Heineken Cup

{{2024–25 United Rugby Championship table}}

{{2024–25 United Rugby Championship regional pools}}

{{2023–24 European Rugby Champions Cup Pool C table}}

Image:Flag of Munster.svg

The 'three crowns' flag of Munster Rugby derives from the historic coat of arms of Munster, which reputedly alludes to the three constituent historic kingdoms of Munster; Thomond in the north, Desmond in the south, and Ormond in the east.

A revamped logo was introduced for the 2003–04 season which included the addition of a stag with the three crowns.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-10124797.html|title=New Munster kit and logo to save revenue, not exploit fans|date=3 July 2003|work=Irish Examiner|access-date=13 March 2007}} The new crest was designed by the Limerick graphic design and branding agency Designer's Ink, who received a Gold Award in the Irish Design Effectiveness Awards for the branding and implementation of Munster Rugby.{{cite news|url=http://www.designers-ink.ie/branding-and-design/munster-rugby-logo|title= Munster crest and branding implementation by Designers Ink|date=1 July 2003|work=Designer's Ink|access-date=23 June 2016}} The crest was designed to maintain the three crowns and the new red stag symbolises strength and competitiveness. The decision for change was a product of two years of planning of research and design.

Munster's kit is made by Adidas, who replaced Canterbury in 2007 in a deal initially covering kit supply for three seasons. Between 2004 and 2013, Toyota was Munster's primary sponsor, appearing on the front of their jersey. On 23 May 2013, it was announced on that Bank of Ireland would be replacing Toyota as Munster's sponsor.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2013/05/23/munster-team-up-again-with-bank-of-ireland/|title=Munster Team Up Again With Bank of Ireland|date=23 May 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 May 2013}} In April 2017, the deal with Bank of Ireland was extended until the end of the 2022–23 season.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2017/04/13/bank-of-ireland-to-lineout-with-munster-until-2023/|title=Bank of Ireland To Lineout With Munster Until 2023|date=13 April 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 April 2017}} In August 2017, Munster announced that Shannon Airport had become its 'official airport partner' in a three-year deal, which would see the Shannon Airport logo appear on the players' shorts from the 2017–18 season onwards.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2017/08/31/munster-partner-with-shannon-airport/|title=Munster Partner With Shannon Airport|date=31 August 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=1 September 2017}} The deals with kit manufacturer Adidas and retail partner LifeStyle Sports were extended in July 2019 until the end of the 2025–26 season.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2019/07/09/munster-rugby-extend-partnerships-with-adidas-and-life-style-sports/|title=Munster Rugby Extend Partnerships With adidas And Life Style Sports|date=9 July 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=10 July 2019}}

File:Thomond Park.jpg]]

Munster have two main stadia where they play their home matches – Thomond Park in Limerick and Musgrave Park in Cork. Thomond Park is the bigger of the two, with a capacity of 25,600, which can be expanded up to 26,267 with temporary seating, while Musgrave Park holds 8,800.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2023/09/04/squad-operations-update-munster-men-v-leinster-in-cork/#post|title=Squad & Operations Update {{!}} Munster Men v Leinster In Cork|date=4 September 2023|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=9 September 2023}} As well as Munster, Shannon and UL Bohemians play at the grounds of Thomond Park. Thomond Park is famous for its atmosphere and unique history{{cite web|url=https://worldstadia.com/thomond-park.html| title=Details for Thomond Park, Limerick|work=World Stadia|access-date=13 March 2007}} – its noise during play and complete silence when a player (home or away) is kicking at goal. It was also famous for Munster's intimidating record that it held for over a decade – having never been beaten at home during the Heineken Cup. However, the record was broken during the 2006–07 season when they were defeated by Leicester Tigers.{{cite news|url=https://www.epcrugby.com/report/tigers-storm-thomond-park/|title=Tigers storm Thomond Park|work=EPC Rugby|access-date=13 March 2007}} Munster train in the University of Limerick.

Thomond Park went through a major renovation in 1999 and in 2006, Munster announced plans to upgrade it. In autumn 2008, the new 25,600 capacity stadium was opened. Two sweeping arches are one of the defining features of the stadium, as well as the concourse outside of the new East Stand. The new stadium design was well received and won the Public Choice Award for 2009 from the Irish Architecture Foundation. A long discussion and consultation on the new name concluded with the decision that the name would remain Thomond Park.{{cite news|url=http://www.irishtimes.com/sports/rugby/2008/0221/1203471576676.html|title=Thomond to keep its name|date=21 February 2008|newspaper=The Irish Times|access-date=15 June 2008}}

Image:Munster rugby 2006.jpg in Limerick.]]

The Munster Rugby Supporters Club was founded in 1999 and has branches in Brussels, Dublin, London and the United States.{{cite news|url=https://www.mrsc.ie/membership/about-us/|title=Munster Rugby Supporters Club {{!}} About Us|work=Munster Rugby Supporters Club|access-date=27 November 2022}} The strength of Munster's support was demonstrated during Munster's 2006 and 2008 Heineken Cup final wins. News reports detailed the lengths that fans were willing to go to secure tickets to the game, with some Munster fans travelling to Biarritz to buy up the French allocation of tickets. On the day of the game the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff was filled with a capacity crowd of 74,500. Of those numbers it is estimated that somewhere between 55,000 and 65,000 were Munster fans with the remainder being neutrals and Biarritz supporters. The Millennium Stadium was intended to be a neutral venue but commentators on the day remarked that it could hardly be counted as such.

Munster played in the most attended semi-final match of the Heineken Cup. 82,208 spectators attended their 2008–09 Heineken Cup semi-final against Irish rivals Leinster, which was played in Croke Park, Dublin. This was also, at the time, the largest crowd ever at a club rugby union match. The record was broken in a league game between English sides Saracens and Harlequins in 2012.

Munster's appearance in the 2002 final of the Heineken Cup against Leicester Tigers at the Millennium Stadium, which drew 74,600, was the record attendance for a final in the competition{{cite news|url=https://www.epcrugby.com/report/the-seventh-heineken-cup-final/#report|title=The seventh Heineken Cup final|work=EPC Rugby|access-date=13 March 2007}} until the 2007 Heineken Cup final between Leicester and London Wasps at the newly expanded Twickenham. Munster's 2005 quarter-final against Biarritz Olympique in Estadio Anoeta, played across the border in Spain in San Sebastián set the record for the biggest rugby match ever played in Spain with an attendance of 32,000.{{cite news|url=https://www.epcrugby.com/report/biarritz-move-into-final-four/#report|title=Biarritz Move Into Final Four|work=EPC Rugby| access-date=13 March 2007}} Their October 2006 Celtic League game against Leinster at Lansdowne Road beat the record for that competition with an attendance of 27,252.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/my_club/leinster/5406318.stm|title=Leinster 27–20 Munster|date=6 October 2006|work=BBC Sport|access-date=13 March 2007}} This record lasted just two months however, with the Leinster and Ulster match on 31 December 2006 filling Lansdowne Road (over 48,000 in attendance) for the last match at the stadium before redevelopment.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/rugby_union/irish/6182811.stm|title=The final curtain|date=22 December 2006|work=BBC Sport|access-date=13 March 2007}}

On 2 October 2010, Munster played Leinster in the round 5 of the Celtic League at the Aviva Stadium, this set a new crowd attendance record for a Celtic League game at 50,645.{{cite news|url=https://www.unitedrugby.com/latest/match-report/leinster-overcome-munster-in-front-of-record-crowd|title=Leinster overcome Munster in front of record crowd|date=1 October 2010|work=United Rugby|access-date=2 October 2010}} On 26 December 2017, a new attendance record for Thomond Park in the Pro14 was set when 26,267 were at the Munster v Leinster fixture.

Munster fans are known for their silence when a kick is being taken, but also for their noise. Fans repeatedly chant "MUNSTER" or sing "The Fields of Athenry" (an Irish famine song from Galway, Connacht) and "Stand Up and Fight" (from the Broadway musical Carmen Jones).{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-stand-up-and-fight-origin-5079673-Apr2020/|title=From Bizet to O'Brien: How Stand Up and Fight became a Munster anthem|date=28 April 2020|work=The42|access-date=28 April 2020}} They sang "The Black Velvet Band" to the Ospreys' Irish winger Tommy Bowe during their 2009 Heineken Cup quarter-final encounter. Tommy Bowe sang this song at the official reception for the 2009 Grand Slam winning Ireland rugby team. Munster Rugby has given the word "Garryowen" to the rugby lexicon. The Limerick club of Garryowen introduced the "Garryowen kick", a high up-and-under which puts defending players under pressure. Shortly after the 2018 death of Dolores O'Riordan, lead singer of The Cranberries (a band formed in Limerick), Munster fans adopted the band's song "Zombie" as an unofficial anthem.{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/zombie-song-lyrics-ireland-rugby-world-cup-b2429738.html |title=Zombie: Why Ireland's Rugby World Cup anthem is causing controversy |first=Luke |last=Baker |newspaper=The Independent |date=14 October 2023 |access-date=14 October 2023}} The song's status was further cemented during the 2021–22 season, with the hit single featuring prominently in Munster's defeat against Toulouse in May 2022 and in their win against a South Africa XV in Páirc Uí Chaoimh in November 2022.{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-van-graan-scannell-5758060-May2022/|title='It can't be the peak' - Munster must rebound for next trip to Dublin|date=9 May 2022|work=The42|access-date=27 November 2022}}{{cite news|url=https://extra.ie/2022/05/08/sport/rugby/munster-fans-aviva-cranberries|title=Watch: Munster fans burst into rendition of a Cranberries classic in spine-tingling scenes at the Aviva|date=8 May 2022|work=Extra.ie|access-date=27 November 2022}}{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-pairc-ui-chaoimh-5916449-Nov2022/|title=Zombie, Zebo, The Fields - Munster must return to the Páirc soon|date=11 November 2022|work=The42|access-date=27 November 2022}}

{{anchor|MunsterA}}

Munster A is the team that represents Munster in the Celtic Cup and in the IRFU Interprovincial Championship. Pre-professionalism and a formal league structure, the main Munster team competed in the IRFU Interprovincial Championship. Since the advent of professionalism, the provinces have fielded lesser teams in order to concentrate on the league. The team is composed of senior Munster squad players requiring gametime, academy players and All-Ireland League players called up from their club.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishrugby.ie/2010/05/24/munster-welcome-new-academy-players-on-board/|title=Munster Welcome New Academy Players On Board|date=24 May 2010|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}

Having been beaten finalists in the 2009–10 British and Irish Cup, losing 23–14 to Cornish Pirates,{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2010/05/16/british-irish-cup-defeat/|title=British & Irish Cup Defeat|date=16 May 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=29 April 2012}} Munster A secured success in the British and Irish Cup on 27 April 2012, beating Cross Keys 31–12 in the final of the 2011–12 tournament at Musgrave Park.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report_nostats/munster-prove-too-strong/|title=Munster Prove Too Strong|date=27 April 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=29 April 2012}} On 21 April 2017, Munster A won their second British and Irish Cup, beating English RFU Championship side Jersey Reds 29–28 in the 2016–17 final, which was held in Musgrave Park. At one point during the first half, Munster A had been losing 18–0, but fought back to secure victory.{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report_nostats/munster-a-claim-bi-cup-title-after-cork-rollercoaster/|title=Munster A Claim B&I Cup Title After Cork Rollercoaster|date=21 April 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 April 2017}}

With 2017–18 being the last season in which the British and Irish Cup was held, the Welsh Rugby Union and Irish Rugby Football Union formed a new tournament, the Celtic Cup, which features development squads from the four Irish provinces and four Welsh regions, split into two pools of four. The first tournament ran over seven consecutive weeks between 7 September 2018 and 21 October 2018.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2018/08/15/irfu-wru-launch-the-celtic-cup-to-develop-emerging-talent/|title=IRFU & WRU Launch The Celtic Cup to Develop Emerging Talent|date=15 August 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 August 2018}}

{{For|player movements before or during the 2024–25 season|List of 2024–25 United Rugby Championship transfers#Munster}}

†Matches played as part of the Irish Inter-provincial Rugby Championship, separate from league fixtures, are not included in this table.

Correct as of 21 April 2025

Correct as of 31 March 2025.

:Correct as of 21 April 2025

{{Main|Munster Rugby players}}

The following Munster players have represented the British & Irish Lions. Bold indicates tour captain.

The following table shows the players who won at least 200 caps for Munster. All players are Irish, unless otherwise noted.

(Correct as of 21 April 2025)

The following is a list of non-Irish qualified Munster players. Note: flags indicate national union as has been defined under World Rugby eligibility rules. Players may hold more than one non-WR nationality.

(Correct as of 31 March 2025){{cite web |title=PLAYER STATISTICS |url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/teams/player-stats/ |website=Munster Rugby |access-date=9 April 2024}}

Bold indicates highest overall record. All players are Irish unless otherwise indicated.

(Correct as of 21 April 2025)

(Correct as of 1 June 2024)

(Correct as of 21 April 2025)

The ERC issued awards to teams that had played at least 50 matches in European competitions.
Correct as of 27 April 2024{{cite web |title=Most Matches |url=https://tournamentguides.epcrugby.com/statistics/records/most-matches/ |website=EPRC |access-date=27 April 2024}}

All players are Irish unless otherwise noted.

This award recognised the best European player in the Heineken Cup from 1995 to 2010.{{cite news|url=https://www.irishrugby.ie/2010/05/16/erc-player-honour-for-ogara/|title=ERC Player Honour For O'Gara|date=16 May 2010|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=26 February 2017}}

In 2010, the following Munster players were selected in the ERC European Dream Team, an all–time dream team of Heineken Cup players.{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2010/05/16/erc-honour-ogara-wallace-foley/|title=ERC Honour O'Gara, Wallace & Foley|date=16 May 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 January 2017}}

The ERC issued awards to players who had scored at least 500 and 1,000 points in European competitions.

{{reflist|group=n}}

The United Rugby Championship Golden Boot is awarded to the kicker who has successfully converted the highest percentage of place kicks during the 18-week regular URC season. The prize has been awarded annually since 2012.

• {{cat|Munster Rugby players}}
• History of rugby union matches between Leinster and Munster
• History of rugby union matches between Munster and Connacht
• History of rugby union matches between Munster and Ulster

{{reflist|2}}

{{reflist|group=note}}

• English, A, (2005) Stand Up and Fight: When Munster Beat the All Blacks, Random House, London
• English, A, (2006) Munster: Our Road to Glory, Penguin Ireland, Dublin
• Murphy, E, (2006) Munster Rugby: The Secret of Their Success, Maverick House Publishers, Dublin
• Cronin, C, (2006) Beyond Our Wildest Dreams: Munster's Heineken Cup Odyssey, Tuatha Mumhan Books
• Irish Examiner, (2008) Munster: Champions of Europe, Gill & Macmillan Ltd, Dublin
• Coughlan, B, (2009) Rags to Riches: The Story of Munster Rugby, The Collins Press, Cork
• Mulqueen, C & O'Dowd, B, (2015) The Story of Thomond Park: Where Miracles Happen, The Collins Press

{{Commons category}}

{{wikinews|Munster Rugby}}

• {{Official website|https://www.munsterrugby.ie/}}
• [https://www.mrsc.ie/ Official Munster Rugby Supporters Club site]
• [https://www.munsterfans.com Munster Fans Forum]
• [https://www.irishrugby.ie/provinces/munster/#overview IRFU Munster site]
• [https://www.unitedrugby.com/clubs/munster URC - Munster site]
• [https://www.epcrugby.com/club/munster-rugby/#overview EPCR – Munster site]

{{Munster Rugby}}

{{Munster Rugby squad}}

{{Munster Rugby captains}}

{{United Rugby Championship}}

{{Rugby union in Ireland}}

{{European Rugby Champions Cup}}

{{British and Irish Cup}}

{{Sport in Limerick City}}

{{Sport in Cork City}}

{{Authority control}}

Category:Rugby clubs established in 1879

Category:Rugby union governing bodies in Ireland

Category:Heineken Cup champions

Rugby

Category:United Rugby Championship teams