The Lions will head into Saturday’s decisive Vodacom URC clash against Munster at Thomond Park with the Irish club in turmoil, both on and off the field.
Munster confirmed on Tuesday that the club has commissioned an independent governance and organisational review following what CEO Ian Flanagan described as a “difficult” period for the club.
The review comes amid a turbulent campaign off the field, including the controversial appointment of former All Black Roger Randle as attack coach before the club did an about-turn.
The reversal came amid significant backlash surrounding a previous rape allegation.
Munster have also recently announced compulsory redundancies among staff members.
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Things have not been much better on the field as Munster failed to qualify for the knockout stage of the Investec Champions Cup.
The club dropped to the second-tier EPCR Challenge Cup where they exited the competition in the round of 16 to the Exeter Chiefs.
Munster are locked in a battle to make the URC playoffs – they sit sixth on the standings with 51 points, one place behind the Lions (53).
Cardiff, Ulster (both 50) and Connacht (49) are all within striking distance and ready to pounce should either the Lions or Munster slip up.
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Munster board chairman Ger Malone said the club needed to restore stability.
“It is clear that the past number of weeks have been difficult for staff, players, coaches, supporters and everyone who cares about Munster Rugby,” he said.
“We recognise the impact that recent events and decisions have had on our stakeholders.
“The board is fully committed to ensuring that Munster Rugby upholds the highest standards of governance across the organisation.
“Commissioning this independent review is an important part of that commitment.”
Photo: Michael Steele/Getty Images
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