Mike Prendergast to Bath: Munster Attack Coach Departs for Premiership Champions

Munster Rugby has confirmed that Senior Coach Mike Prendergast will leave the province at the complete of the current season, with strong indications he will join Bath Rugby. The move reunites Prendergast with former Munster Head Coach Johann van Graan, now at the helm of the Premiership champions.

Beirne Acknowledges Disappointment, Understands Decision

Munster captain Tadhg Beirne expressed his disappointment at the news, but voiced his understanding of Prendergast’s decision. “I was disappointed to hear for sure, not just to lose Mike as a coach but also the person he is,” Beirne said. “He’s brilliant around the squad and everyone gets on unbelievably well with him, but at the same time there’s an opportunity for him elsewhere and he’s going to do what’s best for his family and I completely understand that.” [RTÉ]

Prendergast’s Impact on Munster

Prendergast joined Munster in 2022, having previously coached in France with Racing 92, Stade Francais, Oyonnax, and Grenoble. During his tenure, Munster secured the 2022/23 United Rugby Championship title, with Prendergast’s attacking strategies playing a key role. [Irish Times] He also served as Ireland A head coach and was an assistant coach for Ireland’s summer tour.

A Previous Bid for the Top Job

Prendergast’s position within Munster became more complex last year when he publicly expressed interest in the Head Coach role following Graham Rowntree’s departure. However, New Zealander Clayton McMillan was ultimately appointed, leading to Prendergast being promoted to Senior Coach. [Irish Examiner]

Bath Reunion with Van Graan and Russell

The move to Bath allows Prendergast to reunite with Johann van Graan, who previously managed Munster. It also offers the opportunity to work again with out-half Finn Russell, with whom he collaborated at Racing 92. [RTÉ]

Munster’s Future and Beirne’s Perspective

Despite the coaching change, Beirne remains optimistic about Munster’s future. “Who knows what’s going to happen in terms of someone else coming in,” he stated. “It’d be interesting to notice what happens because our attack might change again and appear, sometimes that can do the world of good as well.” He emphasized the team’s focus on the remainder of the season and a commitment to continued improvement. [RTÉ]

Munster will continue their United Rugby Championship campaign with a home match against Zebre Parma at Thomond Park. [RTÉ]