Jacques Nienaber joins Munster backroom staff as defence coach

Munster’s back room team next season will also include the former Springbok defence coach and High Performance manager with the South African Rugby Union Jacques Nienaber.

Nienaber will join the province as Defence Coach on a three year contract, while former Irish hooker Jerry Flannery extends his role of Scrum Coach for a further year and former Munster and Ireland player Felix Jones assumes a technical coaching role on a one year deal.

Munster also confirmed their Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus with Anthony Foley remaining in his position as Head coach.

The South African management team hope to be in Ireland to start work for the 2016-17 season on July 1st subject to Nienaber being granted a valid work permit.

Brian Walsh, who held the role of Assistant Coach for the past two seasons, has ended his time with the province as have Ian Costello and Mick O’Driscoll.

In a more detailed breakdown of the division of labour within the team, Erasmus will be accountable for team performance and all on-field coaching. His primary role will see him take charge of attack while Head Coach Foley will assume responsibility for line-outs and the breakdown.

Nienaber previously held roles in physiotherapy and strength and conditioning with Currie Cup and Super Rugby sides Cheetahs and Cats respectively. Over a seven year period he held defence roles with Western Province, Stormers, Junior Springboks, South African Schools and the Springboks.

Felix Jones, who was forced to retire from rugby last October, will primarily focus on development of the team’s attacking fundamental skills.

"We are delighted to finalise our coaching requirements for next season and look forward to welcoming Jacques and Felix to the set-up," said Munster CEO Garret Fitzgerald.

“Jacques is a highly rated and sought after coach who brings a wealth of experience with him after working across all levels of the game. We believe he will be a great addition to the coaching staff. While Felix, who had a hugely successful playing career with both Munster and Ireland, will provide invaluable technical know-how in aiding the development of our young squad.”