JIMMY Duffy has been named the new Forwards Coach with Munster. He will replace Alex Codling on a two-year term.
Duffy’s career has involved spells with Connacht, Tonga, Western Force (Australia) and most recently Ulster.
Duffy said: “I’m thrilled to be joining Munster Rugby and I’m excited for the challenge ahead. There is a great deal of potential at the club and I’m looking forward to working with the players and staff over the coming seasons.”
Munster Coach Clayton McMillan said: “Jimmy is an excellent addition to our coaching team. He has proven himself as a quality coach with teams across the URC, Super Rugby and the Ireland U20s.”
“He comes with a glowing reputation for developing players and driving high standards and accountability. When we spoke, I was impressed with Jimmy’s sense of purpose, his attention to detail and work ethic.
“I have no doubt he has the tools to drive us forward and look I forward to working alongside him next season.”
General Manager Ian Costello added: “We are delighted to have secured a coach of Jimmy’s calibre ahead of next season.”
“Throughout this process he demonstrated a real passion for driving the identity and DNA of the forward pack and his expertise in developing and improving young forwards makes him a perfect fit with so many exciting young players coming through the system.”
Meanwhile, Seán Cronin, who coached the senior team’s scrum throughout the 2025/’26 season, will return to this role as Provincial Talent Coach on a full-time basis.
In addition, Cronin will take on the additional remit of Pathway Scrum Coach where he will be responsible for the individual development of emerging front row forwards and deliver a scrum programme throughout the talent system.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Seán Cronin for the excellent work he did with the senior team last season,” Costello said.
“I am excited about the impact he will have on developing and delivering a scrum programme for the promising talent we have coming through our pathway.”