Roger Randle won't join Munster after the current Super Rugby Pacific season. Photo / Photosport
Chiefs assistant coach Roger Randle says he’s “deeply saddened” allegations from nearly three decades ago, which he vehemently denies, have seen his move to join Munster as their attack coach called off.
Randle, who played two games for the All Blacks in 2001, was set to join the club next season after signing a two-year deal with the province, where he was going to work alongside former Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan.
But the announcement last month caused unease among fans and senior figures at the organisation after an historic rape accusation made against him resurfaced, dating back to 1997 when he was a player with the Hurricanes on tour in South Africa.
While the charges were dropped and Randle has always denied the allegation, it still led to intense scrutiny.
In a statement, Munster said having considered the circumstances that have developed after the announcement, the parties have “have mutually agreed not to proceed with the appointment”.
Randle said in a statement he was disappointed by the outcome.
“I am deeply saddened that unfounded allegations from nearly 30 years ago – allegations I have always denied – have resurfaced during this process and overshadowed what was a wonderful opportunity to contribute to Munster Rugby,” Randle said.
“I want to state clearly that these claims are false, and I maintain my complete and unwavering innocence, as I always have.
“It became clear that the renewed public attention around these allegations had created circumstances where proceeding with the role was no longer the right outcome for our family. This is something that we accept with genuine sadness and disappointment
“My priority now is supporting my family and moving forward, while continuing to stand by the truth.
“I would like to sincerely thank Clayton, the wider Munster Rugby organisation and its supporters, and I wish them every success in the future.”
Reports from Ireland say the organisation’s Professional Games Committee (PFC) were not consulted about the appointment, and only became aware after it was confirmed, which led to key figures Billy Holland, Killian Keane and Mick O’Driscoll stepping down, while members of the club’s Commercial Advisory Group also resigned.
McMillan, who worked with Randle at the Chiefs, said he was “personally disappointed” that the 51-year-old would not be coming on board.
“I want to acknowledge Roger’s professionalism throughout this process and the way he has engaged in what have been difficult discussions for everyone,” he said.
“I am personally disappointed that we will not have the opportunity to work together at Munster. I know Roger well, he’s an outstanding person and coach, and I believe he would have brought a real quality to the programme.”
Munster general manager Ian Costello said it was a “difficult decision” to make.
“After recent discussions, it became clear that this was the best course of action for Roger, his family and Munster Rugby,” Costello said.
“Our focus remains on supporting the team for the rest of the season and ensuring we have the best structures and systems in place for the 2026/27 season.”
It is unclear what the future now holds for Randle, but Chiefs chairman Errol Brain said he remains a valued member of the coaching staff.
“The Chiefs Rugby Club are saddened by the news one of our long-standing and highly regarded coaches, Roger Randle, has made the difficult decision to turn down an offer to coach at Munster, in Ireland,” Brain said.
“Roger has been part of the Chiefs coaching staff since 2018 and played 59 games for the club from 1998 to 2003.He is regarded as a man of mana, integrity, and honesty.”
Randle has been at the Chiefs since 2018 and has also served as an assistant for the Māori All Blacks in recent years.
McMillan is in his first season with the Limerick-based club and they currently sit fifth in the United Rugby Championship standings.
Ben Francis is an Auckland-based reporter for the New Zealand Herald who covers breaking sports news.