View source for Munster Rugby

{{Short description|Rugby team in Ireland}}
{{Use Hiberno-English|date=August 2021}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2021}}
{{Infobox rugby team
| teamname       = Munster Rugby
| image          = [[Image:Munster Rugby logo.svg|225px|Munster Rugby Logo]]
| nickname       = The Red Army
| union = {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Irish Rugby Football Union|IRFU]]
| url            = https://www.munsterrugby.ie/
| founded        = {{Start date and age|1879}}
| location       = [[Limerick]] and [[Cork (city)|Cork]], Ireland
| ground         = {{nowrap|[[Thomond Park]] (Capacity: 25,600)<ref group=note>Thomond Park's official capacity is 25,600 but can be expanded up to 26,276 with temporary seating.</ref>}}<br>{{nowrap|[[Musgrave Park, Cork|Musgrave Park]] (Capacity: 8,800)}}
| president      = Seán Loftus<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/domestic_news/sean-loftus-elected-munster-branch-president/|title=Seán Loftus Elected Munster Rugby President|date=5 June 2025|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=5 June 2025}}</ref>
| ceo            = Ian Flanagan<ref name="Flanagan Munster CEO">{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2019/09/11/munster-rugby-and-the-irfu-are-pleased-to-announce-that-ian-flanagan-has-been-appointed-to-the-position-of-munster-rugby-ceo-and-will-take-up-the-post-in-mid-october/|title=Ian Flanagan Appointed Munster Rugby CEO|date=11 September 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=11 September 2019}}</ref>
| chairman       = Ger Malone<ref name="Flanagan Munster CEO"/>
| coach          = [[Clayton McMillan]]
| captain        = [[Tadhg Beirne]]
| appearances    = [[Stephen Archer]] (304)
| top scorer     = [[Ronan O'Gara]] (2,625)
| most tries     = [[Simon Zebo]] (73)
| league         = [[United Rugby Championship]]
| season         = [[2024–25 United Rugby Championship|2024–25]]
| position       = Quarter-finalists (play-offs)<br>6th (regular season)<br>2nd, Irish Shield
|
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| currentseason  = 2025-26 Munster Rugby season
}}
[[Image:Rugby Provincial Teams Ireland.svg|thumb]]

'''Munster Rugby''' ({{langx|ga|Rugbaí Mumhan}}) is one of the professional provincial [[rugby union|rugby]] teams from the island of [[Ireland]]. They compete in the [[United Rugby Championship]] and the [[European Rugby Champions Cup]]. The team represents the [[Irish Rugby Football Union|IRFU]]'s Munster Branch, which is responsible for rugby union throughout the Irish province of [[Munster]]. The team motto is "To the brave and faithful, nothing is impossible." This is derived from the motto of the [[MacCarthy Mor dynasty|MacCarthy]] clan – "Forti et Fideli nihil difficile". Their main home ground is [[Thomond Park]], [[Limerick]], though some games are played at [[Musgrave Park, Cork|Musgrave Park]], [[Cork (city)|Cork]].

==History==

===Foundation and early years===
Munster was officially founded in 1879, at the same time as [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]] and [[Ulster Rugby|Ulster]], with [[Connacht Rugby|Connacht]] being founded ten years later in 1889. The first interprovincial matches between Leinster, Ulster and Munster, however, were held in 1875. The founding of the Munster branch of the [[Irish Rugby Football Union|IRFU]] was intended to organise and oversee the game within the province and prevent any club bias by providing neutral selectors for the representative side. In amateur days, the four Irish provinces played against each other in the [[IRFU Interprovincial Championship]] and also played touring international sides.

Munster traditionally drew its strength from the clubs of [[Limerick]], with the game popular in the city and widely played at all levels. Teams such as [[Shannon RFC|Shannon]], [[Garryowen Football Club|Garryowen]] and [[Young Munster]] built up fierce rivalries with one another, helping push standards in the province higher as a result.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/club/3028230/Limerick-rugby-full-of-heroes.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/club/3028230/Limerick-rugby-full-of-heroes.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Limerick rugby full of heroes|date=22 May 2002|work=[[The Daily Telegraph]]|access-date=28 August 2021}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

===Games against touring sides===
Munster has a great tradition of competitiveness and impassioned displays against touring sides. The first touring side to play Munster were the famous [[Original All Blacks]] led by [[Dave Gallaher]], who lined out against Munster in the [[Markets Field]], [[Limerick]] in November 1905. Munster were defeated that day 33–0. Throughout the years, Munster were to record a number of near-misses and last minute defeats against [[South Africa national rugby union team|South Africa]], [[Australia national rugby union team|Australia]] and [[New Zealand national rugby union team|New Zealand]]. The first tangible result against a touring side was to come in 1958, when the Wallabies were held to a 3–3 draw in [[Thomond Park]]. Munster became the first Irish provincial side to defeat a major touring team when they defeated Australia 11–8 in [[Musgrave Park, Cork]] on 25 January 1967. Munster were captained that day by [[Tom Kiernan]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.joe.ie/uncategorized/five-matches-between-munster-and-test-sides-12423|title=Munster v The World: 5 memorable matches|work=[[Joe (website)#SportsJOE.ie|SportsJOE]]|access-date=5 August 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/the-club/about-munster-rugby/history-timeline/page/2/|title=Munster Rugby {{!}} History Timeline|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=5 August 2023}}</ref>

====Against New Zealand====
{{main|History of rugby union matches between Munster and New Zealand}}

Munster first played the All Blacks in 1905, losing 33–0 on the occasion. They have played each other many times since then. Munster drew with [[New Zealand national rugby union team|New Zealand]] 3–3 in 1973 and, in 1978, became, at the time, the only Irish side to have beaten the All Blacks. The 12–0 victory occurred on Tuesday 31 October 1978 at [[Thomond Park]], in front of a crowd of 12,000, though many times that number still claim to have been present, such was the occasion.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/2337205/Munster-savour-slice-of-heaven.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/2337205/Munster-savour-slice-of-heaven.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Munster savour slice of heaven|date=21 May 2006|work=The Daily Telegraph|access-date=28 August 2021}}{{cbignore}}</ref> Christy Cantillon scored a try with [[Tony Ward (rugby union)|Tony Ward]] converting. Ward also added a drop-goal in each half. Until [[Ireland national rugby union team|the national team]]'s victory on 5 November 2016, it was the only time an All Blacks team lost to any Irish side in the men's game and forms part of Munster Rugby mythology. A stage play named [[Alone it Stands|''Alone it Stands'' (by John Breen)]] and a book entitled ''[[Toreador Song|Stand Up and Fight]]: When Munster Beat the All Blacks'' by Alan English were both based on the event. Both have been commercially successful; ''[[Alone it Stands]]'' has had several sell-out runs in Ireland and abroad and ''Stand Up and Fight'' was a bestseller in 2005.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/international/newzealand/3473409/The-day-Munster-shocked-the-All-Blacks-to-the-core-Rugby-Union.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/international/newzealand/3473409/The-day-Munster-shocked-the-All-Blacks-to-the-core-Rugby-Union.html |archive-date=12 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=Munster's historic 1978 victory over mighty All Blacks proved a defining moment|date=17 November 2008|work=The Daily Telegraph|access-date=28 August 2021}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

The All Blacks returned to [[Thomond Park]] in November 2008 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the 1978 match and to celebrate the opening of the new stadium. After 76 minutes of the match, Munster were winning 16–13, but a late try from [[Joe Rokocoko]] meant the All Blacks won 18–16.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/alone-they-sit-and-recall-putting-mighty-blacks-to-flight-1.910490|title=Alone they sit and recall putting mighty Blacks to flight|date=15 November 2008|newspaper=[[The Irish Times]]|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref>

On 11 November 2016, Munster welcomed the [[Māori All Blacks]] to Thomond Park. The Māori players paid tribute to [[Anthony Foley]] by placing a jersey with his initials on the halfway line before performing the Haka. Māori captain [[Ash Dixon]] then presented the jersey to Foley's sons.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/rugby/international/86393153/new-zealand-maori-pay-tribute-to-late-munster-coach-anthony-foley|title=New Zealand Maori pay tribute to late Munster coach Anthony Foley|date=12 November 2016|work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]]|access-date=12 November 2016}}</ref> Munster went on to win the historic game 27–14.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/magnificent-munster-conquer-maoris/|title=Magnificent Munster Conquer Maoris|date=11 November 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 November 2016}}</ref>

On 3 February 2024, Munster hosted a world first 'Clash of Champions' against the [[Crusaders (rugby union)|Crusaders]], the 14-time champions of [[Super Rugby]], at [[Páirc Uí Chaoimh]] in [[Cork (city)|Cork]]. Munster edged out the Crusaders to win 21–19, having led 14–7 at half-time. The Crusaders were coached by Former Munster Head Coach [[Rob Penney]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Crusaders confirm plans for Northern Tour in February 2024 |url=https://crusaders.co.nz/latest/news/crusaders-announce-pre-season-northern-tour/ |access-date=2024-01-07 |website=Crusaders Rugby |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Geary |first=Sean |date=2023-06-29 |title=A World First For Munster Rugby And Crusaders |url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2023/06/29/a-world-first-for-munster-rugby-and-crusaders/ |access-date=2024-01-07 |website=Munster Rugby |language=en-GB}}</ref>

====Against Australia====
Like the All Blacks, Munster have played [[Australia national rugby union team|Australia]] many times. They first met in 1947, when Australia won 6–5. Munster claimed their first victory over the Wallabies in 1967 when they won 11–8. In 1992, Australia, then-reigning world champions having won the [[1991 Rugby World Cup]], visited Munster as part of a European tour. Munster won 22–19 in a rough encounter in Cork. Ten years later, London newspaper ''The Daily Telegraph'' recounted part of the legend in a feature on Munster prop [[Peter Clohessy]]: "The then Wallabies coach, [[Bob Dwyer]], who was not a man who readily accepted that opposition sides could legitimately score more points than his team, immediately branded the Munster number 3 a 'disgrace'. It had been a typically rugged, robust and memorable Munster triumph, with leather and fists flying on both sides. Clohessy, who wouldn't generally be known for misconduct, was no more guilty than the next man but world champions are not supposed to lose against a hastily assembled Irish provincial XV. There had to be a reason, an excuse, and Dwyer rounded on Clohessy".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/4777723/Irelands-great-prop-claws-his-way-to-50.html|title=Ireland's great prop claws his way to 50|date=31 January 2002|work=[[The Daily Telegraph]]|access-date=5 August 2023|url-access=subscription}}</ref>

History repeated itself in 2010 when Munster defeated the Wallabies 15–6, with their Australian fly-half, [[Paul Warwick (rugby union)|Paul Warwick]], kicking all fifteen points (three penalties and 2 drop goals).<ref>{{cite news|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/rugby_union/my_club/munster/9196601.stm|title=Munster 15-6 Australia|date=16 November 2010|work=[[BBC Sport]]|access-date=31 October 2018}}</ref>	The match was played in ferocious weather, with Munster playing into a gale-force wind and driving rain in the first-half. Indeed, the conditions made the half time score of 6–6 all the more significant, as Australia could neither cope with the weather nor the Munster pressure in the second-half.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/class-of-2010-excel/|title=Class of 2010 Excel|date=17 November 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=3 February 2013}}</ref>

====Against South Africa====
Munster have played South Africa much less frequently than they have Australia and New Zealand. The first fixture between the two sides took place on 11 December 1951 in [[Thomond Park]], with the visitors emerging with an 11–6 win after a late try broke the deadlock. South Africa returned to face the province for a second time on 22 December 1960, this time at [[Musgrave Park, Cork|Musgrave Park]]. They again secured a narrow win against the province, needing two late scores for a 9–3 win. The third meeting between the sides was less of a close-run thing, with South Africa easing to a 25–9 win in Thomond Park on 11 January 1970.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2022/11/07/previous-meetings-munster-v-south-africa/#post|title=Previous Meetings {{!}} Munster v South Africa|date=7 November 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 November 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-41002217.html|title=Munster v South Africa: The history behind the fixture|date=9 November 2022|newspaper=[[Irish Examiner]]|access-date=13 November 2022}}</ref>

After the [[Structure of the Gaelic Athletic Association|GAA Central Council]] unanimously backed the proposal, Munster confirmed they would face a [[South Africa national rugby union team|South Africa XV]] in a friendly held at [[Cork GAA]]'s 45,000-capacity [[Páirc Uí Chaoimh]] on 10 November 2022. It was the first time Munster have faced a South African national team in the professional era and the first time a game of rugby was held at the stadium.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-south-africa-pairc-ui-chaoimh-rugby-5851165-Aug2022/|title=GAA give green light for Páirc Uí Chaoimh to host Munster-South Africa rugby fixture|date=27 August 2022|work=[[TheJournal.ie#The42.ie|The42]]|access-date=29 August 2022}}</ref> The match was a 41,400 sell-out at [[Páirc Uí Chaoimh]], making it the largest attendance for a rugby match in the province, and saw Munster secure their first ever win against South Africa in a 28–14 victory. Winger [[Shane Daly]] opened the scoring in just the 2nd minute, with fly-half [[Ben Healy (rugby union)|Ben Healy]] converting to give the home side a 7–0 lead. South Africa hit back in the 12th minute through an [[Aphelele Fassi]] try that was converted by [[Johan Goosen]] to level the score, but Munster struck back with tries from [[Simon Zebo]] and [[Diarmuid Barron]], both converted by Healy, to head into half-time with a 21–7. Munster struck early in the second-half, with fullback [[Mike Haley (rugby union)|Mike Haley]] scoring after just two minutes and Healy's fourth conversion of the night extending their lead to 28–7. South Africa scored their second try in the 62nd minute when [[Sikhumbuzo Notshe]] crossed the try-line, converted by [[Gianni Lombard]], but the visitors were unable to mount a comeback and Munster hung on to earn a famous win.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-secure-historic-victory-over-sa-select-xv/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Secure Historic Victory Over SA Select XV|date=10 November 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 November 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-41004179.html|title='That is going to give us a shot in the arm' - Rowntree savours Springbok scalp|date=10 November 2022|work=[[Irish Examiner]]|access-date=13 November 2022}}</ref>

===Professional era===
{{main|Munster in European rugby}}

On 26 August 1995, the [[World Rugby|International Rugby Board]] declared rugby union an "open" game, removing all restrictions on payments or benefits to those connected with the game. This was done due to a committee conclusion that having an open game was the only way to end the hypocrisy of [[shamateurism]], and keep control of the sport. The threat to amateur rugby union was mostly prevalent in the Southern hemisphere, particularly in Australia where [[Super League (Australia)|Super League]] was threatening to entice players to [[rugby league]] with large salaries.<ref name=SuperLeague>Howitt (2005), p.8</ref> In Ireland, the four provincial teams were the only teams to go professional, while their smaller constituent clubs remained amateur.

The 1995–96 season saw the [[1995–96 Heineken Cup|first ever Heineken Cup]], a new tournament set up for European clubs. The Irish were allocated three places in the competition, with these places going to Leinster, Munster and Ulster. Munster finally reached the [[European Rugby Champions Cup|Heineken Cup]] quarter-finals in [[1998–99 Heineken Cup]], after three years of not being able to get out of the group stages.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2018/03/29/a-look-back-at-our-nine-previous-home-quarter-finals/|title=A Look Back At Our Previous Home Quarter-Finals|date=29 March 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=5 August 2023}}</ref>

===Near-misses and European glory (1999–2009)===
Munster's first appearance in the Heineken Cup's [[2000 Heineken Cup Final|final]] was in the [[1999–2000 Heineken Cup]], where they lost by one point to [[Northampton Saints|Northampton]] at [[Twickenham Stadium|Twickenham]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.epcrugby.com/report/the-fifth-heineken-cup-final/#report|title=The Fifth Heineken Cup Final|date=27 May 2000|work=EPC Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Nevertheless, the season was most memorable with a 31–25 win over [[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]] in Bordeaux.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/story/0,3604,218509,00.html|title=Magnificent Munster savour a vintage Bordeaux|date=8 May 2000|work=The Guardian|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref>

Their good form and bad luck continued in the following season, [[2000–01 Heineken Cup|2000–01]], with a semi-final defeat to [[Stade Français]], again by one point, where a try from John O'Neill was disallowed by the referee, as he deemed the ball to be out over the dead-ball line.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/in_depth/2000/heineken_cup/1289437.stm|title=Munster edged out by Stade|date=21 April 2001|work=BBC Sport|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> In the [[2001–02 Heineken Cup]], Munster lost the last match of their pool at [[Castres Olympique|Castres]], but qualified as best runners-up.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2002/jan/13/rugbyunion.heinekencup200102|title=Sarramea steals it|date=13 January 2002|work=The Guardian|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Munster beat Stade Français 16–14 in Paris, the only try of the game coming from [[Anthony Horgan]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2002/jan/28/rugbyunion.heinekencup200102|title=French morale cast to the wind as Munster blow hot|date=28 January 2002|work=The Guardian|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> It was then on to [[Béziers]] to meet [[Castres Olympique|Castres]] again for the semi-final. Munster were triumphant and went to the final at [[Millennium Stadium]] to meet the reigning champions, [[Leicester Tigers|Leicester]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2002/apr/29/rugbyunion.heinekencup2001021|title=Munster earn their place in the sun|date=29 April 2002|work=The Guardian|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Munster lost a tight game remembered as 'the hand of [[Neil Back|Back]]' final, as the Leicester flanker used his hand illegally in a scrum when Munster had a last-chance attack.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2002/may/26/rugbyunion.munster|title=Back-hander steals victory|date=26 May 2002|work=The Guardian|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Munster also reached the final of the [[United Rugby Championship|Celtic League]] in this season, but lost 24–20 to [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]] at [[Lansdowne Road]], [[Dublin]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.unitedrugby.com/latest/history/leinster-v-munster-final-flashback|title=Leinster v Munster: Final Flashback|date=26 March 2021|work=United Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref>

In [[2002–03 Heineken Cup|2002–03]], Munster reached the quarter-finals after a win against [[Gloucester Rugby|Gloucester]], later issued on [[VHS]] under the title "The Miracle Match". In this game, Munster needed to win by a margin of at least 27 points and score a minimum of four tries to earn a quarter-final berth. They won 33–6 with four tries in a game that has become part of Munster Rugby folklore.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2003/01/18/munster-crush-gloucester-thomond-park/|title=Munster Crush Gloucester At Thomond Park|date=18 January 2003|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/remembering-munster-s-miracle-match-when-all-players-stood-up-1.3667072|title=Remembering Munster's 'Miracle Match': When 'all players stood up'|date=18 October 2018|newspaper=The Irish Times|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> They again faced Leicester, this time at the Tigers' home of [[Welford Road Stadium|Welford Road]], and defeated the reigning champions to progress to the semi-finals.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2003/04/13/munster-thrash-leicester-at-welford-road/|title=Munster Thrash Leicester at Welford Road|date=13 April 2003|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> They faced [[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]] in the semi-finals and lost out on a place in the final after losing by a single point in France.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2003/04/26/munster-beaten-in-france/|title=Munster Beaten in France|date=26 April 2003|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> In this season, Munster won the Celtic League for the first time, by beating [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Neath-Swansea Ospreys]] 37–17 at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2003/02/01/victory-munster-crowned-celtic-league-champions/|title=Victory! – Munster Crowned Celtic League Champions!|date=1 February 2003|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref>

In [[2003–04 Heineken Cup|2003–04]] it was more of the same. After an assured performance in the pool stage, Munster defeated [[Stade Français]] at [[Thomond Park]] to set up a semi-final date with English champions, [[Wasps RFC|London Wasps]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2004/04/10/munster-37-32-stade-francais/|title=Munster 37-32 Stade Francais|date=10 April 2004|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> This match has gone down as one of the best Heineken Cup matches of all time. Although leading by 10 points in the second half, and having lost [[Ronan O'Gara]] to injury early on, they succumbed to two Wasps tries in injury time, resulting in a Wasps v Toulouse final.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2004/apr/26/rugbyunion.heinekencup2003041|title=Leota finds the final word as Wasps edge an epic|date=26 April 2004|work=The Guardian|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.balls.ie/rugby/munster-wasps-2004-408816|title=The Iconic Game Which Changed Munster Rugby Forever|date=18 April 2019|work=Balls.ie|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Munster finished in a disappointing seventh position in the 2003–04 season of the Celtic League.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2004/05/15/munster-finish-on-a-high/|title=Munster Finish on a High|date=15 May 2004|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref>

In [[2004–05 Heineken Cup|2004–05]], after a shaky performance in the pool stage, Munster qualified as 5th seeds and played [[Biarritz Olympique|Biarritz]] away. The match was played at [[Real Sociedad]]'s ground, the [[Estadio Anoeta|Anoeta Stadium]], in [[San Sebastián]], Spain – the first Heineken Cup game ever played in Spain. Biarritz won 19–10 to avenge a 38–29 defeat at the same stage in 2001.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2005/04/03/brave-munster-out-of-heineken-cup/|title=Brave Munster Out of Heineken Cup|date=3 April 2005|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Munster finished second in the 2004–05 Celtic League season but won the [[Celtic Cup (rugby union)|Celtic Cup]], defeating [[Scarlets|Llanelli Scarlets]] 27–16 in the final.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2005/05/14/celtic-cup-glory/|title=Celtic Cup Glory|date=15 May 2005|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref>

[[Image:HeinekenCupFinal06MunsterVBiarritz200506SmallByMike.JPG|thumb|Inside the Millennium Stadium for the 2006 final, where over 65,000 Munster fans were present]]

In [[2005–06 Heineken Cup|2005–06]], Munster qualified to the final of the Heineken Cup, having overcome rivals [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]] 30–6 in the semi-final at [[Lansdowne Road]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2006/apr/24/rugbyunion.heinekencup2005062|title =Power and glory with O'Connell as Munster machine mows down Leinster forwards|date=24 April 2006|work=The Guardian|access-date=18 August 2020}}</ref> The [[2006 Heineken Cup Final|final]] was held at the [[Millennium Stadium]] against Biarritz. Munster won 23–19 to become European Champions for the first time.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2006/05/20/munster-crowned-european-champions/|title=Munster Crowned European Champions|date=20 May 2006|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Munster finished one place lower than the previous season in the Celtic League, finishing third overall.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2006/05/27/munster-37-8-cardiff-blues/|title=Munster 37-8 Cardiff Blues|date=27 May 2006|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref>

The [[2006–07 Heineken Cup]] was a disappointing tournament for Munster, as they lost their previously unbeaten European record at [[Thomond Park]], losing to [[Leicester Tigers]] in the group stages in January 2007,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2007/jan/22/rugbyunion.heinekencup2006073|title=Bulldozing White shows the Tigers how to turn the tide of Munster history|date=22 January 2007|work=The Guardian|access-date=18 August 2020}}</ref> and later lost their quarter-final to [[Scarlets|Llanelli Scarlets]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/my_club/llanelli_scarlets/6450933.stm|title= Scarlets 24-15 Munster|date=30 March 2007|work=BBC Sport|access-date=18 August 2020}}</ref>	Munster's performance in the Celtic League was equally disappointing, finishing sixth overall.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-end-on-a-high-note/|title=Munster End On A High Note|date=11 May 2007|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref>

In 2007, Munster signed [[Doug Howlett]], the all-time leading try scorer for [[New Zealand national rugby union team|New Zealand]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2007/08/31/howlett-munster-bound/|title=Howlett Munster Bound|date=31 August 2007|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Howlett joined the squad after the [[2007 Rugby World Cup]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2008/01/02/howlett-looking-forward-to-getting-involved/|title=Howlett Looking Forward To Getting Involved|date=2 January 2008|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> That season's [[2007–08 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]] saw Munster finish top in their group,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2008/01/20/mighty-munster-do-it-again/|title=Mighty Munster Do It Again|date=20 January 2008|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> and they went on to reach the final for the second time in three years, beating [[Saracens F.C.|Saracens]] in the semi-final.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/brave-munster-battle-through/|title=Brave Munster Battle Through|date=28 April 2008|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> The [[2008 Heineken Cup Final|final]], again held at the [[Millennium Stadium]], saw Munster defeat Toulouse 16–13 to claim their second Heineken Cup title in 3 years.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-champions-of-europe/|title=Munster Champions of Europe|date=24 May 2008|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-rugby-heineken-idUKL2441473420080524|title=Munster beat Toulouse 16-13 in gripping final|date=24 May 2008|work=Reuters|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Munster finished third in the Celtic League in the 2007–08 season. In May 2008, Director of Coaching [[Declan Kidney]] left to take up the head coach job with [[Ireland national rugby union team|Ireland]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2008/05/07/kidney-confirmed-as-new-ireland-coach/|title=Kidney Confirmed as New Ireland Coach|date=7 May 2008|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Munster ensured continuity by promoting Australian [[Tony McGahan]] to the position from within the coaching setup.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2008/06/18/mcgahan-the-new-munster-coach/|title=McGahan The New Munster Coach|date=18 June 2008|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref>

In the [[2008–09 Heineken Cup]], Munster once again topped their group and hammered [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]] 43–9 to advance to a semi-final against arch-rivals [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/heineken-cup-semi-secured/|title=Heineken Cup Semi Secured|date=12 April 2009|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Many had fancied Munster to become only the second team to win back-to-back Heineken Cups, but a dominant Leinster side gained revenge for their 2006 semi-final defeat against Munster with a 25–6 win in [[Croke Park]], in front of a then-world record 82,208 crowd.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munsters-heineken-journey-ends/|title=Munster's Heineken Journey Ends|date=2 May 2009|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://en.espn.co.uk/europeancup/rugby/story/96183.html|title=Leinster stun Munster to book final berth|date=2 May 2009|work=ESPN Scrum|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Munster clinched the [[2008–09 Celtic League|Celtic League]] for the second time in their history, after their closest challengers [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]] beat [[Dragons RFC|Dragons]] but failed to claim a bonus point. This handed the title to Munster who could not be overtaken at the top of the table.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2009/04/30/magners-is-munsters/|title=Magners is Munster's|date=30 April 2009|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref>

===The McGahan and Penney years (2009–2014)===
The [[2009–10 Heineken Cup|2009–10]] season saw Munster finish top of their Heineken Cup pool once again. Victories over [[Northampton Saints]], French [[Top 14]] champions [[USA Perpignan|Perpignan]] and Italian side [[Benetton Rugby|Benetton]] saw Munster qualify for the Heineken Cup quarter-finals for a record 12th consecutive year.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/the-better-half-makes-all-the-difference/|title=The Better Half Makes All The Difference|date=24 January 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> The match took place at Thomond Park, where Munster played Northampton Saints for the third time that season and won 33–19.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munsters-heineken-cup-continues/|title=Munster's Heineken Cup Continues|date=10 April 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> They lost 18–7 in the semi-finals against Biarritz at the Anoeta.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-way-below-best/|title=Munster Way Below Best|date=3 May 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Munster came 4th in the Celtic League, but because this season saw the introduction of a play-off system for the top four teams, Munster met and lost 16–6 to Leinster in the play-off semi-final.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2010/05/15/leinster-through-to-magners-final/|title=Leinster Through To Magners Final|date=15 May 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref>

The [[2010–11 Munster Rugby season|2010–11]] season saw Munster drawn in [[2010–11 Heineken Cup|pool 3]] of the Heineken Cup alongside [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]], [[London Irish]] and [[RC Toulonnais|Toulon]]. Munster lost 23–17 away to London Irish,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-salvage-something#report|title=Munster Salvage Something|date=10 October 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> before defeating Toulon 45–18 at Thomond Park.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/six-try-bonus-point-win-sends-munster-top#report|title=Six Try Bonus Point Win Sends Munster Top|date=17 October 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2010}}</ref> Munster defeated Ospreys 22–16,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-remain-on-track#report|title=Munster Remain On Track|date=13 December 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> but lost the reverse fixture at Liberty Stadium 19–15.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/no-consolation-from-munsters-point#report|title=No Consolation From Munster's Point|date=19 December 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> In round 5 Munster went to Toulon, losing 32–16. As a result, Munster failed to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Heineken Cup for the first time in 13 years.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/out-of-sorts-and-out-of-heineken#report|title=Out Of Sorts And Out Of Heineken|date=17 January 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Munster won their final pool game, at home to London Irish, 28–14, and qualified for the [[2010–11 European Challenge Cup]] quarter-finals.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/late-try-flurry-seals-bonus-point-win#report|title=Late Try Flurry Seals Bonus Point Win|date=24 January 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Munster defeated Leinster 24–23 on 2 April 2011 in the Celtic League, ending a run of 5 straight defeats against their provincial rivals.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-front-up#report|title=Munster Front Up|date=3 April 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Munster beat [[CA Brive|Brive]] 42–37 in their Challenge Cup quarter-final to qualify for the semi-final against [[Harlequin F.C.|Harlequins]] on 30 April.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-show-more-than-a-little-courage#report|title=Munster Show More Than A Little Courage|date=10 April 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Munster lost the semi-final in [[Thomond Park]] 20–12.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-out-of-amlin#report|title=Munster Out Of Amlin|date=30 April 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> Munster finished first in the [[2010–11 Celtic League]]. They beat Ospreys 18–11 in their semi-final to set up a [[2011 Magners League Grand Final|Grand Final]] with [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]],<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/barnes-finds-the-gap#report|title=Barnes Finds The Gap|date=15 May 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> which Munster won 19–9, securing a third [[United Rugby Championship|Celtic League]] title.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-crowned-magners-league-champions#report|title=Munster Crowned Magners League Champions|date=28 May 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/munster-close-out-season-in-grand-style-1.586154|title=Munster close out season in grand style|date=30 May 2011|newspaper=[[The Irish Times]]|access-date=30 May 2011}}</ref>

Munster were drawn in pool one for the [[2011–12 Heineken Cup]], alongside [[Northampton Saints]], [[Scarlets]] and [[Castres Olympique|Castres]]. They beat Northampton 23–21 in the first pool game at [[Thomond Park]], after an 83rd minute drop-goal from [[Ronan O'Gara]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/cometh-the-moment-cometh-the-men#report|title=Cometh The Hour, Cometh The Men|date=13 November 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 November 2011}}</ref> In their second pool game, Munster beat Castres 24–27, with O'Gara again scoring an overtime drop-goal to secure victory.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/same-again-thanks-rog#report|title=Same Again Thanks Rog|date=20 November 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 November 2011}}</ref> Munster won their third pool game, away to [[Scarlets]], 17–14.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/set-piece-defence-gives-munster-the-edge#report|title=Set-Piece & Defence Gives Munster The Edge|date=11 December 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=11 December 2011}}</ref> In the return fixture a week later, Munster won 19–13.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-complete-the-scarlets-job#report|title=Munster Complete The Scarlets Job|date=19 December 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 December 2011}}</ref> A 26–10 win over Castres on 14 January 2012 ensured that Munster qualified for the quarter-finals of the 2011–12 Heineken Cup.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/fifth-successive-wins-sees-munster-through#report|title=Fifth Successive Win Sees Munster Through|date=15 January 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=15 January 2012}}</ref> Munster ended their 2011–12 Heineken Cup pool fixtures with a 51–36 victory against Northampton Saints, securing the top seed in the quarter-finals and winning 6 out of 6 pool matches for the first time.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-close-the-deal#report|title=Munster Close The Deal|date=22 January 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 January 2012}}</ref> Munster lost their quarter-final against Ulster 22–16, losing just their second match at home in the Heineken Cup.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-go-crashing-out#report|title=Munster Go Crashing Out|date=8 April 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 April 2012}}</ref> Munster finished third in the [[2011–12 Pro12]], and played [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]] away in the play-off semi-finals, losing 45–10.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/no-consolation-of-any-sort-in-this-result#report|title=No Consolation Of Any Sort In This Result|date=12 May 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 May 2012}}</ref> It was announced on 22 February 2012 that McGahan would be leaving Munster at the end of the 2011–12 season,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/17124877|title=Tony McGahan set to leave Munster for Australia at end of season|date=22 February 2012|work=[[BBC Sport]]|access-date=22 February 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-20184725.html|title=Munster to lose McGahan|date=22 February 2012|work=[[Irish Examiner]]|access-date=22 February 2012}}</ref> to take up a role of coaching co-ordinator on [[Australia national rugby union team|Australia's]] management team. [[Rob Penney]], coach of [[Canterbury representative rugby union team|Canterbury]] and [[New Zealand national under-20 rugby union team|New Zealand U20]], was chosen to succeed McGahan, being unveiled as the next Munster coach on 2 May 2012.<ref name="Penney Appointed">{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2012/05/02/penney-appointed/|title=Penney Appointed|date=2 May 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=3 May 2012}}</ref>

Munster were again drawn in pool one for the [[2012–13 Heineken Cup]], with [[Saracens F.C.|Saracens]], [[Edinburgh Rugby|Edinburgh]] and [[Racing 92]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2012/06/13/heineken-cup-pools-2012-2013/|title=Heineken Cup Pools 2012/2013|date=13 June 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 June 2012}}</ref> The campaign opened with a 22–17 away defeat at the hands of [[Racing 92]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/defeat-snatched-from-the-jaws-of-victory#report|title=Defeat Snatched From The Jaws Of Victory?|date=13 October 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=21 October 2012}}</ref> Munster won their second game, at home to [[Edinburgh Rugby|Edinburgh]], 33–0.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/end-game-earns-bonus#report|title=End Game Earns Bonus|date=22 October 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 November 2012}}</ref> The December back-to-back games began with a home fixture against [[Saracens F.C.|Saracens]], which Munster won 15–9.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-show-their-gritty-side-2#report|title=Munster Show Their Gritty Side|date=10 December 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=12 December 2012}}</ref> In the reverse fixture, Munster lost 19–13.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-lose-after-epic-battle#report|title=Munster Lose After Epic Battle|date=17 December 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 December 2012}}</ref> In the fifth round of pool fixtures, Munster beat [[Edinburgh Rugby|Edinburgh]] 26–17.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-win-in-murrayfield-2#report|title=Munster Win In Murrayfield|date=13 January 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 January 2013}}</ref> Munster had to win their final pool game, against [[Racing 92]], with a try bonus-point to have a chance of qualifying for the quarter-finals. Munster won the game 29–6, scoring five tries, including a hat-trick from [[Simon Zebo]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-go-through#report|title=Munster Go Through|date=21 January 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref> [[Leicester Tigers]]' 9–5 victory over [[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]] ensured that Munster qualified as a second-best runner-up, and they played [[Harlequin F.C.|Harlequins]] in the quarter-finals. Munster won the quarter-final 18–12,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/alone-they-stand#report|title=Alone They Stand|date=8 April 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 April 2013}}</ref> advancing to the semi-finals, which they lost 16–10 to [[ASM Clermont Auvergne|Clermont]] on 27 April 2013.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-lose-a-game-of-two-halves#report|title=Munster Lose A Game Of Two Halves|date=28 April 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=29 April 2013}}</ref> Munster finished sixth in the [[2012–13 Pro12]].

Munster were drawn in pool 6 for the [[2013–14 Heineken Cup]], alongside [[USA Perpignan|Perpignan]], [[Edinburgh Rugby|Edinburgh]] and [[Gloucester Rugby|Gloucester]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2013/06/05/munster-in-pool-6/|title=Munster In Pool 6|date=5 June 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=5 June 2013}}</ref> Edinburgh beat Munster 29–23 in the opening pool fixture on 12 October 2013.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/disappointing-defeat-in-murrayfield#report|title=Disappointing Defeat In Murrayfield|date=12 October 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 October 2013}}</ref> In their second pool game on 19 October 2013, Munster beat Gloucester 26–10.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/heineken-cup-win-in-thomond-park#report|title=Heineken Cup Win In Thomond Park|date=19 October 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=3 November 2013}}</ref> Munster beat Perpignan 36–8 in round 3,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-top-of-group-after-bonus-point-win#report|title=Munster Top Of Group After Bonus-Point Win|date=8 December 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 December 2013}}</ref> and, in the round 4 reverse fixture on 14 December 2013, won 18–17 in Perpignan.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-claim-last-gasp-win-in-perpignan#report|title=Munster Claim Last-Gasp Win In Perpignan|date=14 December 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 December 2013}}</ref> Munster beat [[Gloucester Rugby|Gloucester]] 20–7 at [[Kingsholm Stadium|Kingsholm]] on 11 January 2014, a win that secured quarter-final qualification.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/quarter-final-place-secured#report|title=Quarter Final Place Secured|date=12 January 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=12 January 2014}}</ref> Munster beat [[Edinburgh Rugby|Edinburgh]] 38–6 on 19 January 2014 in round 6, a bonus-point win that secured a home quarter-final.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/bonus-point-munster-move-into-home-quarters#report|title=Bonus-Point Munster Move Into Home Quarters|date=19 January 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 January 2014}}</ref> On 6 February 2014, it was announced that Penney and backs coach [[Simon Mannix]] would be leaving Munster at the end of the 2013–14 season.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2014/02/06/move-confirmed-for-coaching-duo/|title=Move Confirmed For Coaching Duo|date=6 February 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=6 February 2014}}</ref> Former captain and then-forwards coach [[Anthony Foley]] was confirmed as the next Munster coach on 19 February 2014.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2014/02/19/foley-confirmed-as-next-head-coach/|title=Foley Confirmed As Next Head Coach|date=19 February 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=15 April 2014}}</ref> In their quarter-final, Munster beat [[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]] 47–23.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/vintage-munster-storm-into-semis/|title=Vintage Munster Storm Into Semis|date=5 April 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=5 April 2014}}</ref> Munster lost 24–16 to [[RC Toulonnais|Toulon]] in the semi-final on 27 April 2014.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/toulon-end-munsters-european-campaign#report|title=Toulon End Munster's European Campaign|date=27 April 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=27 April 2014}}</ref> Munster finished third in the [[2013–14 Pro12]],<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2014/05/10/rabodirect-pro12-semi-final-confirmed/|title=RaboDirect PRO12 Semi-Final Confirmed|date=10 May 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=11 May 2014}}</ref> but lost 16–15 to [[Glasgow Warriors]] in the semi–final.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-out-by-narrowest-of-margins#report|title=Munster Out By Narrowest Of Margins|date=16 May 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 May 2014}}</ref>

===Champions Cup begins (2014–2017)===
Munster were drawn in pool 1 of the [[2014–15 European Rugby Champions Cup]], alongside [[Saracens F.C.|Saracens]], [[ASM Clermont Auvergne|Clermont]] and [[Sale Sharks]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2014/06/10/munster-in-pool-1-of-champions-cup/|title=Munster in Pool 1 of Champions Cup|date=10 June 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=10 June 2014}}</ref> A late drop-goal from [[Ian Keatley]] gave Munster a 27–26 away win against [[Sale Sharks]] in round 1 on 18 October 2014.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/keatley-kicks-munster-on#report|title=Keatley Kicks Munster On|date=18 October 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=18 October 2014}}</ref> Munster beats [[Saracens F.C.|Saracens]] 14–3 in round 2 on 24 October 2014.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-overcome-saracens#report|title=Munster Overcome Saracens|date=24 October 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 October 2014}}</ref> [[ASM Clermont Auvergne|Clermont]] beat Munster 16–9 at Thomond Park in round 3 on 6 December 2014, becoming the first French team to beat Munster at their home stadium.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/clermont-claim-win-at-thomond-park#report|title=Clermont Claim Win At Thomond Park|date=6 December 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=6 December 2014}}</ref> In the reverse fixture on 14 December 2014, Clermont beat Munster 26–19.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/losing-bonus-point-secured-at-clermont#report|title=Losing Bonus Point Secured At Clermont|date=14 December 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 December 2014}}</ref> Saracens beat Munster 33–10 on 17 January 2015 in round 5, a defeat which meant Munster failed to qualify for the knockout stages for only the second time in 17 seasons.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-lose-out-in-london#report|title=Munster Lose Out In London|date=17 January 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 January 2015}}</ref> In round 6, Munster beat Sale Sharks 65–10, a win that was their 100th in Europe.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-finish-with-flourish#report|title=Munster Finish With Flourish|date=25 January 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 January 2015}}</ref> Munster finished second on the [[2014–15 Pro12]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-do-the-job-in-cork#report|title=Munster Do The Job In Cork|date=16 May 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 May 2015}}</ref> In the play-off semi-final, Munster beat [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]] 21–18.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/final-beckons-after-incredible-win#report|title=Final Beckons After Incredible Win|date=23 May 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 May 2015}}</ref> Munster were beaten 31–13 by [[Glasgow Warriors]] in the [[2015 Pro12 Grand Final]] on 30 May 2015.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-well-beaten-as-warriors-claim-title#report|title=Munster Well Beaten As Warriors Claim Title|date=30 May 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=31 May 2015}}</ref>

Munster were drawn in pool 4 of the [[2015–16 European Rugby Champions Cup]], alongside [[Stade Français]], [[Leicester Tigers]] and [[Benetton Rugby|Benetton]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2015/06/17/munster-drawn-in-pool-4/|title=Muster Drawn In Pool 4|date=17 June 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 June 2015}}</ref> On 14 November 2015, Munster beat Treviso 32–7 in their opening pool game.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/job-done-in-thomond#report|title=Job Done In Thomond|date=14 November 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 November 2015}}</ref> Munster's second pool game, against Stade Français, was postponed following the [[November 2015 Paris attacks]]. The match was scheduled to be played at the [[Stade Jean-Bouin (Paris)|Stade Jean-Bouin]] in [[Paris]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2015/11/17/stade-francais-fixture-postponed/|title=Stade Francais Fixture Postponed|date=17 November 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=18 November 2015}}</ref> Munster lost 31–19 to Leicester Tigers in round 3 on 12 December 2015.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/tigers-pounce-in-thomond#report|title=Tigers Pounce In Thomond|date=12 December 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 December 2015}}</ref> In the return fixture on 20 December 2015, Leicester beat Munster 17–6.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/champions-cup-defeat-at-welford-road#report|title=Champions Cup Defeat At Welford Road|date=20 December 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 December 2015}}</ref> On 9 January 2016, Munster lost 27–7 to Stade Français in the re-arranged second pool game. A week later, Munster beat Stade Français 26–13.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-bounce-back-in-style-at-thomond#report|title=Munster Bounce Back In Style At Thomond|date=16 January 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 January 2016}}</ref> In their final pool game on 24 January 2016, Munster beat Treviso 28–5.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-finish-with-a-flourish#report|title=Munster Finish With A Flourish|date=24 January 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 January 2016}}</ref> In April 2016, it was confirmed that former Springbok [[Rassie Erasmus]] would be joining Munster as the director of rugby on a three-year contract, beginning on 1 July 2016.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2016/04/25/director-of-rugby-appointed/|title=Director Of Rugby Appointed|date=25 April 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 April 2016}}</ref> Munster finished 6th in the [[2015–16 Pro12]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/champions-cup-rugby-secured#report|title=Champions Cup Rugby Secured|date=7 May 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=7 May 2016}}</ref>

Munster were drawn in pool 1 of the [[2016–17 European Rugby Champions Cup]], alongside [[Racing 92]], [[Leicester Tigers]] and [[Glasgow Warriors]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2016/06/29/munster-to-face-racing-glasgow-leicester/|title=Munster To Face Racing, Glasgow & Leicester|date=29 June 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=29 June 2016}}</ref> In October 2016, Munster's head coach and former captain [[Anthony Foley]] died while the team were in Paris for the first pool game against Racing 92. Due to the sad and sudden passing of Foley, the fixture was rescheduled.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2016/10/16/statement-on-the-sudden-passing-of-anthony-foley/|title=Statement On The Sudden Passing Of Anthony Foley|date=16 October 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 October 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2016/10/16/garrett-fitzgerald-statement-on-anthony-foley/|title=Garrett Fitzgerald Statement On Anthony Foley|date=16 October 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 October 2016}}</ref> On 22 October 2016, in the first game since Foley's death, Munster beat Glasgow 38–17 at a sold-out Thomond Park. Tributes were paid to Foley before, during and after the game and the number 8 jersey was retired for the game, with [[CJ Stander]] wearing the number 24 for the occasion.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-do-foley-proud-with-immense-display#report|title=Munster Do Foley Proud With Immense Display|date=22 October 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 October 2016}}</ref> On 10 December 2016, Munster beat Leicester 38–0 in round 3 of the Champions Cup.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/magnificent-munster-tame-tigers-in-thomond#report|title=Magnificent Munster Tame Tigers In Thomond|date=10 December 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=10 December 2016}}</ref> On 17 December 2016, Leicester won the reverse fixture in [[Welford Road Stadium|Welford Road]] 18–16 after a last-minute penalty from [[Owen Williams (rugby union, born 1992)|Owen Williams]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-just-fall-short-in-tigers-thriller#report|title=Munster Just Fall Short In Tigers Thriller|date=17 December 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 December 2016}}</ref> On 7 January 2017, in the rescheduled round 1 fixture, Munster beat Racing 92 32–7 away from home. [[Simon Zebo]]'s opening try was Munster's 400th in European competition.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-deliver-winning-performance#report|title=Munster Deliver Winning Performance|date=7 January 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=7 January 2017}}</ref> On 14 January 2017, Munster beat Glasgow 14–12 away from home to secure qualification for the quarter-finals.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-secure-their-place-in-champions-cup-quarter-final#report|title=Munster Secure Their Place In Champions Cup Quarter-Final|date=14 January 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=21 January 2017}}</ref> On 21 January 2017, in front of 26,200 spectators in Thomond Park, Munster beat Racing 92 22–10 in round 6 of the pool stage, securing a home quarter-final<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/home-quarter-final-secured#report|title=Home Quarter Final Secured|date=21 January 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 January 2017}}</ref> On 1 April 2017, in the quarter-final, Munster beat [[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]] 41–16 to progress to the semi-finals.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-back-in-champions-cup-semi-finals#report|title=Munster Back In Champions Cup Semi Finals|date=1 April 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=2 April 2017}}</ref> On 22 April 2017, Munster were beaten 26–10 by defending champions [[Saracens F.C.|Saracens]] in the Champions Cup semi-final, which was held in the [[Aviva Stadium]], [[Dublin]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/memorable-european-run-comes-to-an-end#report|title=Memorable European Run Comes To An End|date=22 April 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 April 2017}}</ref> Munster finished 1st after the 22-round regular season of the [[2016–17 Pro12]], with a record total of 86 points.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-top-pro12-table-with-emphatic-connacht-win#report|title=Munster Top PRO12 Table With Emphatic Connacht Win|date=6 May 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=7 May 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2017/05/17/saturday-semi-final-showdown-awaits/|title=Saturday Semi Final Showdown Awaits|date=17 May 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 May 2017}}</ref> On 20 May 2017, in their play-off semi-final, Munster beat [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]] 23–3 in [[Thomond Park]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-secure-guinness-pro12-final-place#report|title=Munster Secure Guinness PRO12 Final Place|date=21 May 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 May 2017}}</ref> 7 days later, in the [[2017 Pro12 Grand Final]], Munster lost 46–22 to [[Scarlets]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/aviva-anguish-in-pro12-final#report|title=Aviva Anguish In PRO12 Final|date=27 May 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 May 2017}}</ref>

===Pro14 expansion===
When the draw for the [[2017–18 European Rugby Champions Cup]] was made, Munster were drawn in pool 4 alongside [[Leicester Tigers]], [[Racing 92]] and [[Castres Olympique|Castres]]. It marked the third season in a row in which Munster faced Leicester and the second season in a row in which they will play Racing 92.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2017/06/08/munster-drawn-in-pool-of-champions-cup/|title=Familiar Look To Champions Cup Pool Draw|date=8 June 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 June 2017}}</ref> On 30 June 2017, it was confirmed after weeks of speculation that director of rugby [[Rassie Erasmus]] and defence coach [[Jacques Nienaber]] would leave the province in December of that year.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2017/06/30/coaching-team-announcement/|title=Coaching Team Announcement|date=30 June 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 June 2017}}</ref>

In August 2017, Celtic Rugby Limited and the [[South African Rugby Union]] confirmed that the two South African teams that had been cut from the southern hemisphere [[Super Rugby]] competition, [[Cheetahs (rugby union)|Cheetahs]] and [[Southern Kings]], would be joining an expanded [[United Rugby Championship|Pro14]] league ahead of the [[2017–18 Pro14|2017–18 season]]. Due to the addition of two new teams, the league format was changed to feature two conferences, A and B, with Munster being placed in conference A alongside [[Cardiff Rugby|Cardiff Blues]], [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]], [[Glasgow Warriors]], [[Connacht Rugby|Connacht]], [[Cheetahs (rugby union)|Cheetahs]] and [[Zebre Parma]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/08/01/cheetahs-southern-kings-join-new-pro14/|title=Cheetahs & Southern Kings Join New PRO14|date=1 August 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=29 August 2017}}</ref>

In October 2017, Munster confirmed that then-[[South Africa national rugby union team|South Africa]] forwards coach [[Johann van Graan]] would join the province in November as their new head coach.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/10/11/munster-rugby-head-coach-appointment/|title=Munster Rugby Head Coach Appointment|date=11 October 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=11 October 2017}}</ref> In the same month, it was announced that Munster's all-time leading try scorer, [[Simon Zebo]], would leave the province at the end of the season.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/10/23/zebo-leave-munster/|title=Zebo to Leave Munster|date=23 October 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 October 2017}}</ref> In rounds 1 and 2 of the [[2017–18 European Rugby Champions Cup pool stage#Pool 4|2017–18 European Rugby Champions Cup]] in October 2017, Munster drew 17–17 away to [[Castres Olympique|Castres]] before earning a 14–7 win at home to [[Racing 92]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/honours-even-castres|title=Honours Even In Castres|date=15 October 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 December 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/gutsy-win-thomond|title=Gutsy Win in Thomond|date=21 October 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 December 2017}}</ref> Erasmus and Nienaber left Munster in early November 2017, with the province confirming their departure on 13 November 2017.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/11/13/munster-bid-farewell-erasmus-nienaber/|title=Munster Bid Farewell To Erasmus & Nienaber|date=13 November 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 December 2017}}</ref> Johann van Graan's first official game as Munster's new head coach was a 36–19 win away against [[Zebre Parma]] in the Pro14 on 26 November 2017.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/11/21/squad-update-pre-zebre/|title=Squad Update Pre-Zebre|date=21 November 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 December 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/bonus-point-win-munster-zebre|title=Bonus-Point Win For Munster In Zebre|date=26 November 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 December 2017}}</ref> {{Rut|Lions}} defence coach [[JP Ferreira]] joined Munster in December 2017.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/12/14/jp-ferreira-confirmed-defence-coach/|title=JP Ferreira Confirmed As Defence Coach|date=14 December 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 December 2017}}</ref> In the December Champions Cup double-header against [[Leicester Tigers]], Munster won 33–10 at home before winning 25–16 away, their first win at [[Welford Road Stadium|Welford Road]] for 11 years.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-rugby-v-leinster-tigers-match-report|title=Bonus-Point Win For Munster Over Tigers|date=9 December 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 December 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/omahony-leads-munster-famous-win-welford-road/|title=O'Mahony Leads Munster To Famous Win At Welford Road|date=17 December 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 December 2017}}</ref> In doing so, Munster became the first team to defeat Leicester in both games of the double-header since they were introduced in 1999, while the home victory also saw Munster surpass 4,000 points in the competition.<ref name="Stats & Pics: Season So Far">{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2018/01/04/stats-pics-season-far/|title=Stats & Pics: Season So Far|date=4 January 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=5 January 2017}}</ref> In rounds 5 and 6 of the Champions Cup, Munster lost 34–30 away to [[Racing 92]] before beating [[Castres Olympique|Castres]] 48–3 at home, securing a record 17th quarter-final.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/narrow-defeat-munster-paris|title=Narrow Defeat For Munster In Paris|date=15 January 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 January 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/complete-performance-secures-17th-quarter-final-spot/|title=Complete Performance Secures 17th Quarter-Final Spot|date=21 January 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 January 2018}}</ref> Munster beat 3-time tournament champions [[RC Toulonnais|Toulon]] 20–19 in the quarter-final after a late [[Andrew Conway]] try and conversion from [[Ian Keatley]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/conway-magic-topples-toulon/|title=Conway Magic Topples Toulon|date=31 March 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=31 March 2018}}</ref> In the semi-final, Munster were beaten 27–22 by their French pool 4 opponents Racing 92.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munsters-champions-cup-dream-ends-in-bordeaux/|title=Munster's Champions Cup Dream Ends In Bordeaux|date=22 April 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 April 2018}}</ref>

Munster finished 2nd in conference A of the [[2017–18 Pro14]] season on 69 points. In their semi-final qualifier against [[Edinburgh Rugby|Edinburgh]] on 5 May 2018, Munster won 20–16 to progress to a semi-final away from home.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-edinburgh/|title=Munster Into PRO14 Semi-Finals After Edging Out Edinburgh|date=5 May 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=6 May 2018}}</ref> In the semi-final against recently crowned [[2017–18 European Rugby Champions Cup|Champions Cup]] winners and arch-rivals [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]] on 19 May 2018, Munster lost 16–15, bringing to an end their 2017–18 season.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-lose-semi-final-to-leinster-by-a-point/|title=Munster Lose Semi-Final To Leinster By A Point|date=19 May 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 May 2018}}</ref>

Munster played two pre-season fixtures ahead of the 2018–19 campaign, the first against [[London Irish]], whose directory of rugby was former Munster and Ireland head coach [[Declan Kidney]], and the second against [[Exeter Chiefs]], which was the first meeting between the two clubs.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2018/05/29/munster-to-host-london-irish-exeter-chiefs-in-august/|title=Munster To Host London Irish & Exeter Chiefs In August|date=29 May 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=29 May 2018}}</ref> Munster beat London Irish 32–28, but lost 12–0 against Exeter Chiefs.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-edge-past-london-irish-in-cork-2/|title=Munster Edge Past London Irish In Cork|date=17 August 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=18 August 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report_nostats/match-report-munster-0-12-exeter-chiefs/|title=Match Report: Munster 0-12 Exeter Chiefs|date=24 August 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 August 2018}}</ref>

Drawn alongside French [[2017–18 Top 14 season|Top 14]] champions [[Castres Olympique|Castres]] and English sides [[Exeter Chiefs]] and [[Gloucester Rugby|Gloucester]], Munster competed in pool 2 of the [[2018–19 European Rugby Champions Cup]].<ref name="Tough Draw For Munster">{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2018/06/20/tough-draw-for-munster-in-champions-cup/|title=Tough Draw For Munster In Champions Cup|date=20 June 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 June 2018}}</ref> Munster opened their [[2018–19 Pro14]] season with a six-try 38–0 victory against South African side [[Cheetahs (rugby union)|Cheetahs]] in [[Thomond Park]] on 1 September 2018. [[Rory Scannell]], [[Dave Kilcoyne]], [[Tommy O'Donnell]], [[JJ Hanrahan]], [[Dave O'Callaghan]] and [[Player of the match|Man-of-the-Match]] [[Darren Sweetnam]] scored the tries, with Hanrahan adding four conversions, in a match that saw [[Arno Botha]], [[Mike Haley (rugby union)|Mike Haley]], [[Joey Carbery]] and academy players [[Shane Daly]] and [[Gavin Coombes]] make their competitive debuts for the province, whilst [[Neil Cronin]] also made his first appearance for Munster since March 2015.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/match-report-winning-start-at-thomond-park/|title=Match Report &#124; Winning Start at Thomond Park|date=1 September 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=1 September 2018}}</ref>

[[Tadhg Beirne]] made his debut for Munster in the provinces 25–10 defeat away to [[Glasgow Warriors]] on 7 September 2018.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/match-report-munster-fall-to-defeat-in-glasgow/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Fall To Defeat In Glasgow|date=7 September 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 September 2018}}</ref> Munster's 64–7 win against [[Ulster Rugby|Ulster]] on 29 September 2018 was a record win for the province in the [[United Rugby Championship|Pro14]]; Munster's previous record win being 47–0 against [[Zebre Parma]] in 2016.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-record-win-for-munster-over-ulster/|title=Report {{!}} Record PRO14 Win For Munster Over Ulster|date=29 September 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 September 2018}}</ref> In round one of the [[2018–19 European Rugby Champions Cup pool stage#Pool 2|2018–19 Champions Cup]] on 13 October 2018, a try from Stander and five points from the boot of [[Joey Carbery]] secured a 10–10 draw in [[Sandy Park]] against [[Exeter Chiefs]], in a match in which [[Dan Goggin (rugby union)|Dan Goggin]] and [[Neil Cronin]] made their competitive European debuts, whilst [[Tadhg Beirne]], who was [[Player of the match|Man-of-the-Match]], [[Mike Haley (rugby union)|Mike Haley]] and Joey Carbery made their European debuts for Munster.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-draw-against-exeter-chiefs/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Draw Against Exeter Chiefs|date=13 October 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 October 2018}}</ref> One week later, tries from [[Mike Haley (rugby union)|Mike Haley]], [[Rhys Marshall]], [[Joey Carbery]], who also kicked four conversions and one penalty in a Man-of-the-Match performance, [[Sammy Arnold]] and [[Andrew Conway]] helped Munster to a 36–22 bonus-point victory at home against [[Gloucester Rugby|Gloucester]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-bonus-point-win-over-gloucester-at-thomond/|title=Report {{!}} Bonus-Point Win Over Gloucester At Thomond|date=20 October 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 October 2018}}</ref>

In the December 2018 back-to-back Champions Cup fixtures against [[Castres Olympique|Castres]], Munster won 30–5 in round 3 on 9 December, with tries from [[Rory Scannell]], Stander and [[JJ Hanrahan]], who also scored 15 points off the kicking tee. In the return leg away to Castres on 15 December, the French side won 13–12, with Joey Carbery scoring all of Munster's points from penalties.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-hanrahan-leads-munster-to-castres-win|title=Report {{!}} Hanrahan Leads Munster To Castres Win|date=9 December 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=15 December 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-losing-bonus-point-for-munster-in-castres/|title=Report {{!}} Losing Bonus Point For Munster In Castres|date=15 December 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=15 December 2018}}</ref> In round 5 of the Champions Cup, Munster beat [[Gloucester Rugby|Gloucester]] 41–15 away from home on 11 January 2019, with the tries coming from [[Joey Carbery]] (2), [[Rory Scannell]], [[Keith Earls]] and [[Andrew Conway]] and 16 points of the kicking tee from Carbery.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-bonus-point-win-at-kingsholm/|title=Report {{!}} Bonus-Point Win At Kingsholm|date=11 January 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 January 2019}}</ref> In round 6, Munster beat [[Exeter Chiefs]] 9–7 in [[Thomond Park]] on 19 January 2019 to advance to a record 18th Champions Cup quarter-final. Joey Carbery scored all of Munster's points from penalties in a closely fought, physical game.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-into-18th-european-quarter-final/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Into 18th European Quarter-Final|date=19 January 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 January 2019}}</ref> Munster defeated [[Edinburgh Rugby|Edinburgh]] 17–13 in their quarter-final in [[Murrayfield Stadium]] on 30 March 2019 to advance to a 14th Champions Cup semi-final,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-into-14th-european-semi-final/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Into 14th European Semi-Final|date=30 March 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 March 2019}}</ref> which Munster lost 32–16 to [[Saracens F.C.|Saracens]] in the [[Ricoh Arena]] on 20 April 2019.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-defeated-by-saracens-in-coventry/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Defeated By Saracens In Coventry|date=20 April 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 April 2019}}</ref>

Munster finished second in conference A in the [[2018–19 Pro14]] season, with 21 wins and 5 defeats,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-set-up-benetton-quarter-final|title=Report {{!}} Munster Set Up Benetton Quarter-Final|date=27 April 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=27 April 2019}}</ref> and beat Italian side [[Benetton Rugby|Benetton]] 15–13 in their quarter-final on 4 May 2019, to secure a semi-final against provincial rivals [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]] in the [[RDS Arena|RDS]] on 18 May 2019.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-late-hanrahan-penalty-earns-semi-final-place/|title=Report {{!}} Late Hanrahan Penalty Earns Semi-Final Place|date=4 May 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=4 May 2019}}</ref> which Leinster won 24–9, bringing to an end Munster's 2018–19 season.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-fall-to-guinness-pro14-semi-final-defeat/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Fall To Guinness PRO14 Semi-Final Defeat|date=18 May 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=18 May 2019}}</ref>

===2019–2022===
Backs coach [[Felix Jones (rugby union)|Felix Jones]] and forwards coach [[Jerry Flannery]] left the province when their contracts expired in June 2019.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2019/05/07/coaching-duo-to-leave-the-province/|title=Coaching Duo To Leave The Province|date=7 May 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 May 2019}}</ref> [[Graham Rowntree]] joined the province as their new forwards coach after the completion of his duties with [[Georgia national rugby union team|Georgia]] at the [[2019 Rugby World Cup]].<ref name="Rowntree Munster">{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2019/06/04/graham-rowntree-to-join-munster-rugby/|title=Graham Rowntree To Join Munster Rugby|date=4 June 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=4 June 2019}}</ref> [[Stephen Larkham]], attack coach for the [[Australia national rugby union team|Australian national team]], also joined the province as a senior coach ahead of the 2019–20 season.<ref name="Larkham Munster">{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2019/06/14/stephen-larkham-to-join-munster-rugby/|title=Stephen Larkham To Join Munster Rugby|date=14 June 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 June 2019}}</ref>

Club legend and head of commercial and marketing, [[Doug Howlett]], also left the province to return to [[New Zealand]] in the summer of 2019, ending his 11-year association with Munster.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2019/05/20/howlett-to-return-to-new-zealand/|title=Doug Howlett To Return To New Zealand|date=20 May 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=21 May 2019}}</ref> Munster's [[Chief executive officer|CEO]] [[Garrett Fitzgerald (rugby union)|Garrett Fitzgerald]] retired upon reaching retirement age in June 2019. Fitzgerald was Munster's first CEO and had been in the post since 1999, making him the longest serving provincial chief executive in Irish rugby at the time.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2019/05/30/garrett-fitzgerald-retirement-confirmed/|title=Garrett Fitzgerald Retirement Confirmed|date=30 May 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 May 2019}}</ref> Ian Flanagan, who was born in [[Cork (city)|Cork]] and previously worked at [[Leicester City F.C.|Leicester City F.C]], was appointed to replace Fitzgerald.<ref name="Flanagan Munster CEO"/>

In a change from the previous two seasons, Munster were in conference B for the [[2019–20 Pro14]] season, alongside [[Benetton Rugby|Benetton]], [[Cardiff Rugby|Cardiff Blues]], [[Connacht Rugby|Connacht]], [[Edinburgh Rugby|Edinburgh]], [[Scarlets]] and [[Southern Kings]]. This will also be the case for the 2020–21 season, and the change was made based on the points total each club achieved after the completion of the regular [[2018–19 Pro14|2018–19]] season.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2019/06/17/conferences-confirmed-for-next-two-guinness-pro14-seasons/|title=Conferences Confirmed For Next Two Guinness PRO14 Seasons|date=17 June 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 June 2019}}</ref>

Munster were seeded in tier 2 when the draw for the 2019–20 European Rugby Champions Cup was made in [[Lausanne]], [[Switzerland]] on Wednesday 19 June 2019,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2019/06/17/key-details-dates-for-next-seasons-champions-cup/|title=Key Details & Fixture Dates For Next Season's Champions Cup|date=17 June 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 June 2019}}</ref> and were drawn in pool 4 alongside defending champions [[Saracens F.C.|Saracens]], [[Racing 92]], who count former Munster players [[Donnacha Ryan]] and [[Simon Zebo]] amongst their squad, and fellow [[United Rugby Championship|Pro14]] side [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2019/06/19/munster-face-tough-champions-cup-opposition/|title=Munster Face Tough Champions Cup Opposition|date=19 June 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 June 2019}}</ref>

Munster opened their 2019–20 Pro14 season with a 39–9 home victory against Welsh side [[Dragons RFC|Dragons]] on 28 September 2019, with the tries coming from [[Arno Botha]], [[Jack O'Donoghue]], [[Player of the match|Man-of-the-Match]] [[Shane Daly]], [[Tyler Bleyendaal]] and academy member [[Diarmuid Barron]], and fly-half [[JJ Hanrahan]] contributing 14 points off the kicking tee. New signing [[Nick McCarthy (rugby union)|Nick McCarthy]] and academy members [[Keynan Knox]] and [[Jack O'Sullivan (rugby union)|Jack O'Sullivan]] all made their senior competitive debuts for the province, and hooker [[Kevin O'Byrne]] won his 50th cap.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-bonus-point-win-over-dragons-at-thomond/|title=Report {{!}} Bonus-Point Win Over Dragons At Thomond|date=28 September 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=28 September 2019}}</ref> Short-term signing [[Jed Holloway]] made his debut for the province in their 31–20 away win against South African side [[Southern Kings]] on 5 October 2019.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-bonus-point-win-for-munster-against-southern-kings/|title=Report {{!}} Bonus Point Win For Munster Against Southern Kings|date=5 October 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=6 October 2019}}</ref>

In the opening two rounds of the [[2019–20 European Rugby Champions Cup pool stage#Pool 4|2019–20 Champions Cup]], Munster beat Welsh [[United Rugby Championship|Pro14]] rivals [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]] 32–13 away from home on 16 November 2019, with tries from [[Jeremy Loughman]], [[Keith Earls]], [[Andrew Conway]] and [[James Cronin (rugby union)|James Cronin]] and twelve points off the kicking tee from [[Tyler Bleyendaal]],<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-last-gasp-cronin-try-hands-munster-bonus-point|title=Report {{!}} Last-Gasp Cronin Try Hands Munster Bonus Point Victory|date=16 November 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 November 2019}}</ref> before drawing 21–21 at home against French side [[Racing 92]] on 23 November 2019; Munster's tries came from [[Keith Earls]] and [[Andrew Conway]], and [[JJ Hanrahan]] contributed eleven points with the boot. The draw was Munster's first at home in the Champions Cup, against a Racing side that included former Munster players [[Donnacha Ryan]] and [[Simon Zebo]] in their starting XV.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-hanrahan-conversion-saves-draw-against-racing/|title=Report {{!}} Hanrahan Conversion Saves Thrilling Draw Against Racing|date=23 November 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 November 2019}}</ref>

Prop [[Stephen Archer]] won his 200th cap for Munster in their [[2019–20 Pro14]] round 7 fixture against [[Edinburgh Rugby|Edinburgh]] on 29 November 2019, becoming the eleventh player to achieve the accolade for the province. Academy fly-half [[Ben Healy (rugby union)|Ben Healy]] made his debut for Munster during the same game, scoring 11 points in the 18–16 defeat to the Scottish side.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-suffer-narrow-edinburgh-defeat/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Suffer Narrow Edinburgh Defeat|date=29 November 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 November 2019}}</ref>

In the Champions Cup back-to-backs against defending champions [[Saracens F.C.|Saracens]], Munster won 10–3 at home on 7 December 2019, with the English side picking up a losing bonus point.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-secure-vital-victory-over-saracens/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Secure Vital Victory Over Saracens|date=7 December 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 December 2019}}</ref> In the return fixture one week later, Munster were beaten 15–6, with two tries in the final quarter securing the win for Saracens and denying Munster a losing bonus point.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-late-saracens-tries-deny-munster/|title=Report {{!}} Late Saracens Tries Deny Munster|date=14 December 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 December 2019}}</ref>

Following an incident that triggered a large brawl in Munster's second fixture against Saracens in December 2019 and a complaint to the [[European Professional Club Rugby|EPCR]] from Saracens, in which Munster team doctor Jamie Kearns was accused of verbally abusing Saracens hooker [[Jamie George]], an independent panel upheld the complaint and found that Kearns had breached the EPCR's disciplinary rules, handing Kearns a three-week ban, suspended for 12 months, and a fine of €2,000 to be paid immediately.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/jamie-kearns-munster-doctor-jamie-george-fined-suspended-4950543-Dec2019/|title=Munster team doctor fined and handed three-week suspended ban following Saracens row|date=31 December 2019|work=[[TheJournal.ie|The42]]|access-date=1 January 2020}}</ref>

Munster went into their round 5 Champions Cup clash away to [[Racing 92]] on 12 January 2020 knowing that they had to win to keep alive their hopes of progressing to the quarter-finals of the tournament, but despite leading the French club with ten minutes to go, late tries from Racing secured a 39–22 win for the home side.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-late-tries-deny-munster-in-paris|title=Report {{!}} Late Tries Deny Munster In Paris|date=12 January 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 January 2020}}</ref> Munster needed results elsewhere to go their way if they were to stand any chance of qualifying for the quarter-finals as the final round of pool matches took place, but [[Glasgow Warriors]] 45–7 win against [[Sale Sharks]] ended those hopes before Munster's final game against [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]] had even taken place.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-champions-cup-4970952-Jan2020/|title=Glasgow victory confirms Munster's Champions Cup exit|date=18 January 2020|work=[[TheJournal.ie|The42]]|access-date=19 January 2020}}</ref> In the event, Munster won 33–6 against Ospreys, with [[Craig Casey]], who made his European debut for the province in the defeat to Racing, scoring his first try for Munster, and [[Calvin Nash]], [[Jack O'Sullivan (rugby union)|Jack O'Sullivan]] and [[Ben Healy (rugby union)|Ben Healy]] making their European debuts for the province.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2020/01/19/report-five-try-win-for-munster-over-ospreys/|title=Report {{!}} Five-Try Win For Munster Over Ospreys|date=19 January 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 January 2020}}</ref>

Munster's 68–3 win against South African side [[Southern Kings]] in round 11 of the Pro14 on 14 February 2020 was a record margin of victory for the province in the competition, and the ten tries scored also set a new record for the province. Academy member [[John Hodnett]] made his debut for Munster in the fixture, scoring a try and earning the [[Player of the match|Man-of-the-Match]] award.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-secure-record-win-over-southern-kings/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Secure Record Win Over Southern Kings|date=14 February 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=15 February 2020}}</ref> The match had an added poignancy for Munster, as their long-serving former CEO, [[Garrett Fitzgerald (rugby union)|Garrett Fitzgerald]], who had only retired in June 2019, died following a battle with illness earlier that day.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2020/02/14/garrett-fitzgerald-passes-away/|title=Garrett Fitzgerald Passes Away|date=14 February 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=15 February 2020}}</ref>

The [[2019–20 Pro14]] was suspended indefinitely by tournament organisers on 12 March 2020 in response to the ongoing [[COVID-19 pandemic|coronavirus pandemic]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/irfu-coronavirus-rugby-postponed-5043855-Mar2020/|title=Pro14 suspended indefinitely as Irish domestic rugby also postponed|date=12 March 2020|work=[[TheJournal.ie|The42]]|access-date=12 March 2020}}</ref> Munster's round 14 and 15 fixtures against Italian side [[Benetton Rugby|Benetton]] had already been postponed.<ref name="Munster Benetton Postponed">{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2020/03/10/munsters-home-game-against-benetton-postponed/|title=Munster's Home Game Against Benetton Postponed|date=10 March 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=12 March 2020}}</ref> [[Tyler Bleyendaal]] was forced to retire from playing rugby with immediate effect in May 2020 due to a persistent neck injury.<ref name="Tyler Bleyendaal Retires">{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2020/05/20/tyler-bleyendaal-forced-to-retire/|title=Tyler Bleyendaal Forced to Retire|date=20 May 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=20 May 2020}}</ref> In the same month, prop [[Brian Scott (rugby union)|Brian Scott]] was also forced to retire with immediate effect due to injury.<ref name="Brian Scott Retires">{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2020/05/26/brian-scott-to-retire-on-medical-grounds/|title=Brian Scott To Retire On Medical Grounds|date=26 May 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=26 May 2020}}</ref> The regular season resumed on 22 August 2020, with the number of rounds reduced from 21 to 15 and any games postponed prior to the indefinite suspension of the season being deemed as 0–0 draws and both teams awarded two points. Rounds 14 and 15 took place as derbies in each territory, with the top two teams in each conference progressing to a semi-final stage.<ref name="Pro14 Restart Date">{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2020/06/18/target-date-set-for-guinness-pro14-restart/|title=Target Date Set For Guinness PRO14 Restart|date=18 June 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=18 June 2020}}</ref>

Munster resumed their season on 22 August 2020 with a fixture against [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]] in the [[Aviva Stadium]], which Leinster won 27–25. Munster handed debuts to new signings [[Damian de Allende]] and [[RG Snyman]], though Snyman's first appearance for the province lasted only 7 minutes after he was injured during a lineout. [[Andrew Conway]] scored tries either side of [[Keith Earls]]' try, with [[JJ Hanrahan]] kicking 10 points off the tee, and [[Chris Farrell]] won the [[Player of the match|Man-of-the-Match]] award.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-narrow-loss-for-munster-in-aviva/|title=Report {{!}} Narrow Loss For Munster In Aviva|date=22 August 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 August 2020}}</ref>

Munster completed their reduced 15 round Pro14 regular season with a seven try 49–12 win against [[Connacht Rugby|Connacht]], a victory that secured a semi-final against defending champions and provincial rivals Leinster on 4 September 2020. The tries came from [[Chris Cloete]], [[Jeremy Loughman]], [[Tadhg Beirne]], [[James Cronin (rugby union)|James Cronin]], two from [[Andrew Conway]] and a [[Try (rugby)#Penalty try|penalty try]], with [[JJ Hanrahan]] kicking all five of his conversions and [[Rory Scannell]] converting the final try. As well as getting on the scoresheet, Tadhg Beirne also won the Man-of-the-Match award on his first game back after fracturing an ankle against Saracens in December 2019.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-seven-try-win-for-munster-over-connacht/|title=Report {{!}} Seven-Try Win For Munster Over Connacht|date=30 August 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 August 2020}}</ref> Leinster won the semi-final 13–3, knocking Munster out at the semi-final stage of the Pro14 for the third season in a row.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-bow-out-of-guinness-pro14/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Bow Out Of Guinness PRO14|date=4 September 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=4 September 2020}}</ref>

Munster opened their [[2020–21 Pro14]] season with a 30–27 away win against [[Scarlets]] on 3 October 2020. Despite nine penalties from Scarlets fullback [[Leigh Halfpenny]] and a red card for captain [[Peter O'Mahony]], tries from [[Jack O'Donoghue]] and [[Chris Farrell]] kept Munster within touching distance of the hosts, and a try from replacement hooker [[Kevin O'Byrne]], converted by [[Ben Healy (rugby union)|Ben Healy]], levelled the score going into the final minutes of the game, before academy fly-half Healy scored a 50-metre penalty in the 81st minute to earn what had previously looked like an unlikely win for the province.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-healy-caps-incredible-comeback-for-14-man-munster/|title=Report {{!}} Healy Caps Incredible Comeback For 14-Man Munster|date=3 October 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=4 October 2020}}</ref>

Munster's [[2020–21 European Rugby Champions Cup|2020–21 Champions Cup]] campaign commenced with a 21–7 home win against Harlequins on 13 December 2020, in which [[Gavin Coombes]], [[Damian de Allende]] and [[Josh Wycherley]] made their tournament debuts. Coombes scored one try, with the other being a penalty try, with [[JJ Hanrahan]] and [[Ben Healy (rugby union)|Ben Healy]] adding nine points of the kicking tee between them.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-make-winning-start-to-champions-cup#report|title=Report {{!}} Munster Make Winning Start To Champions Cup|date=13 December 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 December 2020}}</ref> Munster travelled away to Clermont for round two on 19 December 2020 and, despite trailing 28–9 to the home side at one point, fought back to earn a stunning 39–31 win at the [[Stade Marcel-Michelin]]. The tries for Munster came from [[Mike Haley (rugby union)|Mike Haley]], [[Player of the match|star-of-the-match]] [[CJ Stander]] and [[Kevin O'Byrne]], with JJ Hanrahan scoring a perfect nine from nine off the kicking tee for the other 24 points.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/match-report-munster-secure-dramatic-victory-in-clermont/|title=Match Report {{!}} Munster Secure Dramatic Comeback Victory In Clermont|date=19 December 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=19 December 2020}}</ref>

In early January 2021, the [[European Professional Club Rugby|EPCR]] took the decision to temporarily suspend rounds 3 and 4 of the 2020–21 Champions Cup, following a directive from authorities in France that French clubs should not participate in the scheduled matches in response to health risks posed by the [[COVID-19 pandemic]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/epcr-suspended-champions-cup-5322183-Jan2021/|title=EPCR confirms suspension of Champions Cup and Challenge Cup|date=11 January 2021|work=[[TheJournal.ie#The42.ie|The42]]|access-date=14 January 2021}}</ref>

Munster's 20–17 win against [[Connacht Rugby|Connacht]] in round 14 of the 2020–21 Pro14 on 5 March 2021 saw them become the first team to qualify for [[2021 Pro14 Grand Final]], as the victory gave them an unassailable 12 point lead at the top of conference B with two rounds remaining.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-into-guinness-pro14-final/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Into Guinness PRO14 Final|date=5 March 2021|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=6 March 2021}}</ref> Munster were beaten 16–6 by arch-rivals [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]] in the [[2021 Pro14 Grand Final]] on 27 March 2021.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-guinness-pro14-final/|title=Report {{!}} Guinness PRO14 Final|date=27 March 2021|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=27 March 2021}}</ref>

The Champions Cup resumed on the weekend of 2/3/4 April 2021 with the top eight teams from each pool at the time of suspension progressing to the round of 16, where Munster had home advantage thanks to their wins in the opening games against Harlequins and Clermont.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2021/02/24/home-advantage-for-munster-in-champions-cup/#post|title=Home Advantage For Munster In Champions Cup|date=24 February 2021|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=26 February 2021}}</ref> Munster were drawn against [[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2021/03/09/draw-champions-cup-round-of-16-quarter-final/|title=Munster To Face Toulouse In Champions Cup Knock-Outs|date=9 March 2021|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=9 March 2021}}</ref>

In an enthralling encounter at [[Thomond Park]], Munster led 16–9 at half-time thanks to two tries from [[Keith Earls]] and two penalties from [[Joey Carbery]], but Toulouse pulled level thanks to a converted try from [[Matthis Lebel]]. [[Gavin Coombes]] scored from close-range to give Munster the lead again, before Toulouse captain [[Julien Marchand]] responded with a try to level the scores again at 23–23. Substitute fly-half [[JJ Hanrahan]] scored a penalty to give Munster a 26–23 lead heading into the final 15 minutes of the match, but Toulouse's talismanic scrum-half [[Antoine Dupont]] scored two tries in 9 minutes to help the French club pull away on the scoreboard. A late consolation try from Gavin Coombes, his second of the match, in overtime meant the final score was 40–33 to Toulouse, who became just the second French club to win a European match at Thomond Park and advanced to an away quarter-final against Munster's pool opponents [[ASM Clermont Auvergne|Clermont]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40257980.html|title=Toulouse run in four second-half tries to send Munster out of Champions Cup|date=3 April 2021|work=[[Irish Examiner]]|access-date=3 April 2021}}</ref>

Munster opened their [[2021–22 United Rugby Championship]] campaign with a bonus-point 42–17 win against the [[Sharks (rugby union)|Sharks]], one of the four new South African teams, on 25 September 2021. [[Simon Zebo]], making his return for the province, scored two tries, extending his club record to 62, with [[Gavin Coombes]] continuing his try-scoring exploits from the previous season with two tries of his own. [[Chris Cloete]] and [[player of the match]] [[Craig Casey]] also crossed the try line. Fly-half [[Joey Carbery]] scored seven points off the kicking tee, with his replacement [[Ben Healy (rugby union)|Ben Healy]] contributing five points off the tee in the second-half. [[RG Snyman]] made his eagerly-awaited return from long-term injury as a second-half replacement, and scrum-half [[Rowan Osborne (rugby union)|Rowan Osborne]] made his competitive debut for the province, in a match that saw fans return to [[Thomond Park]] for the first time since February 2020.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-start-season-with-bonus-point-win-over-sharks/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Start Season With Bonus-Point Win Over Sharks|date=25 September 2021|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 September 2021}}</ref>

Munster were in [[South Africa]] for rounds 6 and 7 of the United Rugby Championship, in which they were due to play the {{rut|Bulls}} and the {{rut|Lions}}, however, the emergence of the ''[[SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant|omicron]]'' variant of [[COVID-19]] led to travel restrictions being implemented by [[United Kingdom|UK]] and [[European Union|EU]] authorities, meaning the fixtures had to be postponed.<ref name="SA games postponed">{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40753869.html|title=Munster in race to get out of South Africa as Champions Cup opener against Wasps in doubt|date=26 November 2021|work=[[Irish Examiner]]|access-date=27 November 2021}}</ref> 34 players and staff arrived back in Ireland on 1 December 2021 and immediately entered 10 days of mandatory self-isolation. 14 players and staff who had tested positive for COVID-19 had to remain in South Africa.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2021/12/01/34-munster-players-staff-arrive-home/#post|title=34 Munster Players & Staff Arrive Home|date=1 December 2021|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=3 December 2021}}</ref>

In the wake of this disruption for Munster and other clubs, and with Munster's opening Champions Cup fixture away to [[Wasps RFC|Wasps]] falling on 12 December, the [[European Professional Club Rugby|EPCR]] extended the deadline for registering players for the tournament to 8 December, meaning Munster could look to supplement their squad with short-term signings,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40757928.html|title=Munster may look at new signings as registration date for Champions Cup extended|date=2 December 2021|work=[[Irish Examiner]]|access-date=3 December 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-wasps-champions-cup-5615156-Nov2021/|title=All indications are that Munster's clash with Wasps will go ahead as scheduled|date=29 November 2021|work=[[TheJournal.ie#The42.ie|The42]]|access-date=3 December 2021}}</ref> and 22 players were subsequently registered with the province's Champions Cup squad.<ref name="Munster Additional Players">{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-squad-registration-champions-cup-5623052-Dec2021/|title=Munster to register 22 new players for Champions Cup squad|date=7 December 2021|work=[[TheJournal.ie#The42.ie|The42]]|access-date=7 December 2021}}</ref>

A depleted Munster squad made up of internationals who'd been away with Ireland during the Autumn tests, academy players and members of the national and provincial talent squads travelled over to England to face Wasps on their opening Champions Cup fixture on 12 December 2021. The team, which featured 12 debutantes, pulled off one of the great Munster away victories, defeating their opponents 35–14 in a thrilling contest in front of a large contingent of Munster fans who had made the journey to Coventry.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-wasps-2021-report-5627863-Dec2021/|title=Munster's young guns thrill in wild and wonderful bonus-point win over Wasps|date=12 December 2021|work=[[TheJournal.ie#The42.ie|The42]]|access-date=12 December 2021}}</ref>

Munster made it back-to-back wins in the Champions Cup with a gritty 19–13 win at home against French club Castres on 18 December 2021, with a 58th minute try from number 8 [[Jack O'Donoghue]] and 14 points off the tee from fly-half [[Ben Healy (rugby union)|Ben Healy]] being enough for the province to see off their opposition.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40769109.html|title=Munster grind out Champions Cup victory over dogged Castres|date=18 December 2021|work=[[Irish Examiner]]|access-date=19 December 2021}}</ref>

In the reverse fixture against [[Castres Olympique|Castres]] in round 3 of the Champions Cup on 14 January 2022, Munster earned a 16–13 away win thanks to a 77th minute try from [[Gavin Coombes]], converted by rookie fly-half [[Jack Crowley]], who was faultless off the kicking tee in his first European start for the province. The win secured a place in the knockout stage of the tournament for Munster.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-coombes-strikes-late-as-munster-win-in-france/|title=Report {{!}} Coombes Strikes Late As Munster Win In France|date=14 January 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=15 January 2022}}</ref> Nine days later, Munster followed up their away win against Castres with a 45–7 home win against [[Wasps RFC|Wasps]], with the tries coming from [[Jeremy Loughman]], [[Conor Murray]], [[Jack O'Donoghue]], who was player of the match on the occasion of his 150th cap for Munster, [[Rory Scannell]] and [[Simon Zebo]], who scored a brace to become Munster's all-time leading try-scorer in the Champions Cup and the leading Irish try-scorer in the competition overall. Fly-half [[Ben Healy (rugby union)|Ben Healy]] and his replacement on the day, [[Jack Crowley]], were both 100% from the kicking tee, with Healy scoring four conversions and a penalty, and Crowley adding two late conversions. The win secured home advantage for Munster in the second leg of the round of 16.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40791522.html|title=Impressive Munster romp into last 16 with convincing win over Wasps|date=23 January 2022|work=[[Irish Examiner]]|access-date=23 January 2022}}</ref>

Munster faced English club [[Exeter Chiefs]] in the round of 16,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2022/01/23/munster-to-face-exeter-chiefs-in-champions-cup/|title=Munster To Face Exeter Chiefs In Champions Cup|date=23 January 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 January 2022}}</ref> and lost the first leg of the tie 13–8 away to the Premiership club on 9 April 2022. Exeter took a 10–0 lead in to half-time after tries from [[Stuart Hogg]] and [[Jacques Vermeulen]], before Munster fly-half [[Ben Healy (rugby union)|Ben Healy]] hit back with a penalty to reduce the home sides lead. Hogg responded for Exeter with a drop-goal, but a 66th minute try from [[Shane Daly]] brought Munster back within touching distance on the scoreboard, and Exeter had to withstand some intense offensive play from Munster going into the final ten minutes, with replacement scrum-half [[Craig Casey]] almost drawing the scores level, before the hosts themselves assaulted the Munster try-line in the last minutes of the match in an ultimately unsuccessful attempt to extend their lead.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-exeter-take-13-8-advantage-to-thomond/#report|title=Report {{!}} Exeter Take 13-8 Advantage To Thomond|date=9 April 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 April 2022}}</ref>

Needing to overturn a five-point deficit to advance in the competition, Munster welcomed Exeter to Thomond Park for the second leg of their last 16 tie one week later. Fly-half [[Joey Carbery]], returning from injury, opened the scoring for the hosts with a penalty, but the visitors responded with their first try of the game to take an early 5–3 lead, before Carbery struck back for Munster with a try of his own, to which he added a second penalty to give Munster a 13–5 half-time lead. Exeter struck first in the second-half with a try in the 47th minute, but Carbery kept Munster in front with two further penalties, before centre [[Damian de Allende]] scored a 74th minute try to secure a 26–10 home win for Munster and a 34–23 victory on aggregate, ensuring Munster progressed to a record 19th Champions Cup quarter-final.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-into-19th-champions-cup-quarter-final/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Into 19th Champions Cup Quarter-Final|date=16 April 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 April 2022}}</ref>

Facing defending champions [[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]], who knocked the province out of the previous season's tournament, in the quarter-final,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-toulouse-thomond-park-5740676-Apr2022/|title=Exeter feel full force of Thomond Park effect, as Munster set to hit the road for Toulouse 'home' game|date=17 April 2022|work=[[TheJournal.ie#The42.ie|The42]]|access-date=17 April 2022}}</ref> Munster began strongly with an 11th minute [[Alex Kendellen]] try, converted by [[Joey Carbery]] to lead 7–0, but [[Romain Ntamack]] hit back for Toulouse two minutes later with a try of his own, converted by [[Thomas Ramos (rugby union)|Thomas Ramos]], to level the scores. The visitors were dominating the scrum and scored their second try in the 25th minute when [[Matthis Lebel]] touched down, with Ramos again converting to give Toulouse a 14–7 lead. However, Munster struck back with a [[Keith Earls]] try just before half-time which Carbery converted to leave the scores level heading into the break. The home side came out firing in the second-half, with [[Mike Haley (rugby union)|Mike Haley]] scoring a 43rd minute try, again converted by Carbery, to give Munster a 21–14 lead, which Carbery extended with a penalty in the 56th minute, but Toulouse responded with Lebel's second try in the 66th minute which, when converted by Ramos, reduced the margin to just three points heading into the final ten minutes. A 75th-minute penalty from Ramos levelled the scores at 24–24, and that remained the score at full-time after [[Ben Healy (rugby union)|Ben Healy]] missed with a 56-metre penalty attempt in the final minute of normal time.<ref name="Munster Toulouse Penalties">{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-lose-place-kicking-competition-as-toulouse-advance/|title=Munster Lose Place-Kicking Competition As Toulouse Advance|date=7 May 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=8 May 2022}}</ref>

With the scores level at full-time and as both teams scored three tries, [[Overtime (sports)#Rugby union|extra time]] ensued, played over two ten-minute halves, but even after that the two teams could not be separated after three missed drop goals between the two, and the game went to a penalty shootout. Munster went first and [[Conor Murray]] scored his penalty. [[Antoine Dupont]] responded successfully for Toulouse, but Ben Healy missed his first attempt, and when Thomas Ramos scored his penalty, it was advantage Toulouse. Carbery scored his penalty, but Romain Ntamack scored his own to restore Toulouse's lead. Murray missed with his second attempt, whilst Dupont was successful with his own to give Toulouse a 4–2 lead, meaning Healy had to score with his second attempt to give Munster any hope, but he was unable to do so, and Toulouse advanced to the semi-finals, knocking Munster out of the competition for the second season in a row.<ref name="Munster Toulouse Penalties"/>

A 35–25 defeat away to [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]] in round 18 of the [[2021–22 United Rugby Championship]] meant that Munster finished sixth in the league overall, and third in the Irish Shield,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-beaten-by-leinster/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Beaten By Leinster|date=21 May 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 May 2022}}</ref> and the province headed north to face [[Ulster Rugby|Ulster]] in the quarter-finals on 3 June 2022, but Munster lost 36–17 to bring the curtain down on their 2021–22 season, as well as [[Johann van Graan]]'s tenure as head coach.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/report-munster-lose-to-ulster-in-belfast/|title=Report {{!}} Munster Lose To Ulster In Belfast|date=3 June 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=3 June 2022}}</ref>

===Graham Rowntree becomes head coach===
Head coach [[Johann van Graan]], who joined Munster in November 2017, confirmed in December 2021 that he would be leaving the province at the end of the 2021–22 season to join English club [[Bath Rugby|Bath]]. In addition to this, senior coach [[Stephen Larkham]] also left the province to return home to Australia to become head coach of the [[Brumbies]], and defence coach [[JP Ferreira]] followed van Graan to join Bath. However, forwards coach [[Graham Rowntree]] extended his stay with the province by a further two years,<ref name="Munster Coaching Changes">{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40845080.html|title=Peter O'Mahony admits coaching uncertainty 'not ideal'|date=6 April 2022|work=[[Irish Examiner]]|access-date=9 April 2022}}</ref> and the province confirmed in April 2022 that Rowntree would be promoted to head coach from the 2022–23 season.<ref name="Rowntree promoted to head coach">{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2022/04/12/graham-rowntree-confirmed-as-next-munster-head-coach/|title=Graham Rowntree Confirmed As Next Munster Head Coach|date=12 April 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=12 April 2022}}</ref> [[Mike Prendergast (rugby union)|Mike Prendergast]], a former scrum-half for the province, joined Rowntree's coaching setup as the attack coach on a three-year contract, having most recently fulfilled a similar role for French club [[Racing 92]].<ref name="Prendergast Joins Munster">{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/mike-prendergast-munster-5754910-May2022/|title='A family choice' - Mike Prendergast joins Rowntree at Munster|date=4 May 2022|work=[[TheJournal.ie#The42.ie|The42]]|access-date=4 May 2022}}</ref> [[Andi Kyriacou]], who had joined the province in April 2021 as an elite player development officer with the academy, was promoted to forwards coach with the senior squad on a two-year contract,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/andi-kyriacou-munster-forwards-coach-5761982-May2022/|title=Andi Kyriacou confirmed as Munster forwards coach under Rowntree|date=12 May 2022|work=[[TheJournal.ie#The42.ie|The42]]|access-date=12 May 2022}}</ref> and former Munster player [[Denis Leamy]] returned to the province as defence coach on a three-year contract.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-40885934.html|title=Denis Leamy to return to Munster as defence coach|date=1 June 2022|work=[[Irish Examiner]]|access-date=1 June 2022}}</ref>

After a poor start to the season, Munster won the [[2022–23 United Rugby Championship]] after beating defending champions the [[Stormers]] 19–14 away from home in the [[2023 United Rugby Championship final|final]] on 27 May 2023. In doing so, Munster ended a trophy drought that had lasted since their previous league title during the [[2010–11 Celtic League|2010–11 season]], and secured the first silverware of Graham Rowntree's reign as head coach.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-41149351.html|title=Magical Munster see off Stormers to win URC title and end trophy drought|date=27 May 2023|work=[[Irish Examiner]]|access-date=27 May 2023}}</ref>

==Previous season summaries==

{|class="wikitable" style="margin:auto; width:100%;"
|-
! colspan="1" | 
! colspan="4" | Domestic League
! colspan="2" | European Cup
! colspan="2" | Domestic / 'A' Cup
|-
! style="text-align:center; width:8%;"|Season
! style="text-align:center; width:20%;"|Competition
! style="text-align:center; width:7%;"|Final Position (Pool)
! style="text-align:center; width:7%;"|Points
! style="text-align:center; width:10%;"| Play-offs
! style="text-align:center; width:14%;"|Competition
! style="text-align:center; width:9%;"|Performance
! style="text-align:center; width:15%;"|Competition
! style="text-align:center; width:9%;"|Performance
|-
| 1995–96
| style="text-align:center" colspan=4| ''No competition''
| [[1995–96 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]
| 2nd in pool
| [[IRFU Interprovincial Championship|Interprovincial Championship]]
| 3rd
|-
| 1996–97
| style="text-align:center" colspan=4| ''No competition''
| [[1996–97 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]
| 4th in pool
| style="background: gold"|'''[[IRFU Interprovincial Championship|Interprovincial Championship]]'''
| style="background: gold"|'''Champions'''
|-
| 1997–98
| style="text-align:center" colspan=4| ''No competition''
| [[1997–98 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]
| 4th in pool
| style="background: silver"|[[IRFU Interprovincial Championship|Interprovincial Championship]]
| style="background: silver"|2nd
|-
| 1998–99
| style="text-align:center" colspan=4| ''No competition''
| [[1998–99 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]
| Quarter-final
| style="background: gold"|'''[[IRFU Interprovincial Championship|Interprovincial Championship]]'''
| style="background: gold"|'''Champions'''
|-
| 1999–2000
| style="text-align:center" colspan=4| ''No competition''
| style="background: silver"|[[1999–00 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]
| style="background: silver"|''Runner-up''
| style="background: gold"|'''[[IRFU Interprovincial Championship|Interprovincial Championship]]'''
| style="background: gold"|'''Champions'''
|-
| 2000–01
| style="text-align:center" colspan=4| ''No competition''
| [[2000–01 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]
| Semi-final
| style="background: gold"|'''[[IRFU Interprovincial Championship|Interprovincial Championship]]'''
| style="background: gold"|'''Champions'''
|-
| 2001–02
| style="background: silver"|[[2001–02 Celtic League|Celtic League]]
| style="background: silver"|1st (B)
| style="background: silver"|15
| style="background: silver"|''Runner-up''
| style="background: silver"|[[2001–02 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]
| style="background: silver"|''Runner-up''
| [[IRFU Interprovincial Championship|Interprovincial Championship]]
| 3rd
|-
| 2002–03
| style="background: gold"|'''[[2002–03 Celtic League|Celtic League]]'''
| style="background: gold"|'''1st (A)'''
| style="background: gold"|'''28'''
| style="background: gold"|'''Champions'''
| [[2002–03 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]
| Semi-final
| style="text-align:center" colspan=2| ''No competition ''
|-
| 2003–04
| [[2003–04 Celtic League|Celtic League]]
| 7th
| 51
| style="text-align:center" | ''N/A''
| [[2003–04 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]
| Semi-final
| [[Celtic Cup (rugby union)|Celtic Cup]]
| Quarter-final
|-
| 2004–05
| style="background: silver"|[[2004–05 Celtic League|Celtic League]]
| style="background: silver"|2nd
| style="background: silver"|69
| style="text-align:center"| ''N/A''
| [[2004–05 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]
| Quarter-final
| style="background: gold"|'''[[Celtic Cup (rugby union)|Celtic Cup]]'''
| style="background: gold"|'''Champions'''
|-
| 2005–06
| [[2005–06 Celtic League|Celtic League]]
| 3rd
| 66
| style="text-align:center"|''N/A''
| style="background: gold"|'''[[2005–06 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]'''
| style="background: gold"|'''Champions'''
| style="text-align:center" colspan=2| ''No competition ''
|-
| 2006–07
| [[2006–07 Celtic League|Magners League]]
| 6th
| 54
| style="text-align:center"| ''N/A''
| [[2006–07 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]
| Quarter-final
| style="text-align:center" colspan=2|''No competition ''
|-
| 2007–08
| [[2007–08 Celtic League|Magners League]]
| 3rd
| 48
| style="text-align:center"|''N/A''
| style="background: gold"|'''[[2007–08 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]'''
| style="background: gold"|'''Champions'''
| style="text-align:center" colspan=2|''No competition ''
|-
| 2008–09
| style="background: gold"|'''[[2008–09 Celtic League|Magners League]]'''
| style="background: gold"|'''1st'''
| style="background: gold"|'''63'''
| style="text-align:center" |''N/A''
| [[2008–09 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]
| Semi-final
| style="text-align:center" colspan=2|''No competition ''
|-
| 2009–10
| [[2009–10 Celtic League|Magners League]]
| 4th
| 45
| Semi-final
| [[2009–10 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]
| Semi-final
| style="background: silver"|[[2009–10 British and Irish Cup|British and Irish Cup]]
| style="background: silver"|''Runner-up''
|-
| 2010–11
| style="background: gold"|'''[[2010–11 Celtic League|Magners League]]'''
| style="background: gold"|'''1st'''
| style="background: gold"|'''83'''
| style="background: gold"|'''Champions'''
| [[2010–11 European Challenge Cup|Challenge Cup]]*
| Semi-final
| [[2010–11 British and Irish Cup|British and Irish Cup]]
| 3rd in pool
|-
| 2011–12
| [[2011–12 Pro12|RaboDirect PRO12]]
| 3rd
| 67
| Semi-final
| [[2011–12 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]
| Quarter-final
| style="background: gold"|'''[[2011–12 British and Irish Cup|British and Irish Cup]]'''
| style="background: gold"|'''Champions'''
|-
| 2012–13
| [[2012–13 Pro12|RaboDirect PRO12]]
| 6th
| 54
| Did not qualify
| [[2012–13 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]
| Semi-final
| [[2012–13 British and Irish Cup|British and Irish Cup]]
| Semi-final
|-
| 2013–14
| [[2013–14 Pro12|RaboDirect PRO12]]
| 3rd
| 74
| Semi-final
| [[2013–14 Heineken Cup|Heineken Cup]]
| Semi-final
| [[2013–14 British and Irish Cup|British and Irish Cup]]
| Quarter-final
|-
| 2014–15
| style="background: silver"|[[2014–15 Pro12|Guinness PRO12]]
| style="background: silver"|2nd
| style="background: silver"|75
| style="background: silver"|''Runner-up''
| [[2014–15 European Rugby Champions Cup|Champions Cup]]
| 3rd in pool
| [[2014–15 British and Irish Cup|British and Irish Cup]]
| Quarter-final
|-
| 2015–16
| [[2015–16 Pro12|Guinness PRO12]]
| 6th
| 63
| Did not qualify
| [[2015–16 European Rugby Champions Cup|Champions Cup]]
| 3rd in pool
| [[2015–16 British and Irish Cup|British and Irish Cup]]
| 3rd in pool
|-
| 2016–17
| style="background: silver"|[[2016–17 Pro12|Guinness PRO12]]
| style="background: silver"|1st
| style="background: silver"|86
| style="background: silver"|''Runner-up''
| [[2016–17 European Rugby Champions Cup|Champions Cup]]
| Semi-final
| style="background: gold"|'''[[2016–17 British and Irish Cup|British and Irish Cup]]'''
| style="background: gold"|'''Champions'''
|-
| 2017–18
| [[2017–18 Pro14|Guinness PRO14]]
| 2nd (A)
| 69
| Semi-final
| [[2017–18 European Rugby Champions Cup|Champions Cup]]
| Semi-final
| [[2017–18 British and Irish Cup|British and Irish Cup]]
| Quarter-final
|-
| 2018–19
| [[2018–19 Pro14|Guinness PRO14]]
| 2nd (A)
| 77
| Semi-final
| [[2018–19 European Rugby Champions Cup|Champions Cup]]
| Semi-final
| [[Celtic Cup (2018 rugby union tournament)|Celtic Cup]]
| 2nd in pool
|-
| 2019–20
| [[2019–20 Pro14|Guinness PRO14]]
| 2nd (B)
| 51
| Semi-final
| [[2019–20 European Rugby Champions Cup|Champions Cup]]
| 3rd in pool
| [[Celtic Cup (2018 rugby union tournament)|Celtic Cup]]
| 6th in pool
|-
| 2020–21
| style="background: silver"|[[2020–21 Pro14|Guinness PRO14]]
| style="background: silver"|1st (B)
| style="background: silver"|64
| style="background: silver"|''Runner-up''
| [[2020-21 European Rugby Champions Cup|Champions Cup]]
| Last 16
| [[Pro14 Rainbow Cup|Rainbow Cup]]
| 2nd in pool
|-
| 2021–22
| [[2021–22 United Rugby Championship|URC]]
| 6th
| 56
| Quarter-final
| [[2021-22 European Rugby Champions Cup|Champions Cup]]
| Quarter-final
| [[2021–22 United Rugby Championship#Tables|URC Irish Shield]]
| 3rd
|-
| 2022–23
| style="background: gold"|'''[[2022–23 United Rugby Championship|URC]]'''
| style="background: gold"|5th
| style="background: gold"|55
| style="background: gold"|'''Champions'''
| [[2022-23 European Rugby Champions Cup|Champions Cup]]
| Last 16
| [[2022–23 United Rugby Championship#Tables|URC Irish Shield]]
| 3rd
|-
| 2023–24
| [[2023–24 United Rugby Championship|URC]]
| 1st
| 68
| Semi-final
| [[2023-24 European Rugby Champions Cup|Champions Cup]]
| Last 16
| [[2023–24 United Rugby Championship#Tables|URC Irish Shield]]
| 3rd
|-
| 2024–25
| [[2024–25 United Rugby Championship|URC]]
| 6th
| 51
| Quarter-final
| [[2024-25 European Rugby Champions Cup|Champions Cup]]
| Quarter-final
| [[2024–25 United Rugby Championship#Tables|URC Irish Shield]]
| 2nd
|}

<small><span style="background:gold">Gold background</span> denotes champions<br><span style="background:silver">Silver background</span> denotes runner-up<br></small>

<nowiki>*</nowiki> After dropping into the competition from the [[European Rugby Champions Cup|Heineken Cup]]

==Season records==

===United Rugby Championship===
{| class="wikitable collapsible collapsed" style="text-align:center"
|- style="background:#ff9;"
! Season
! Pos
! Played
! Won
! Drawn
! Lost
! Bonus
! Points
|-
|rowspan="4"| [[2001–02 Celtic League|2001–02]]
| 1st (Pool B) || 6 || 5 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 15
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="8"| '''Munster''' 13 – 6 [[Llanelli RFC|Llanelli]]
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="8"| '''Munster''' 15 – 9 [[Ulster Rugby|Ulster]]
|-
|Final
|colspan="8"| '''[[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]]''' 24 – 20 Munster
|-
|rowspan="4"| [[2002–03 Celtic League|2002–03]]
| 1st (Pool A) || 7 || 6 || 0 || 1 || 4 || 28
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="8"| '''Munster''' 33 – 3 [[Connacht Rugby|Connacht]]
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="8"| '''Munster''' 42 – 10 [[Ulster Rugby|Ulster]]
|-
|Final
|colspan="8"| [[Neath RFC|Neath]] 17 – 37 '''Munster'''
|-
| [[2003–04 Celtic League|2003–04]]
| 7th || 22|| 10 || 0 || 12 || 11 || 51
|-
| [[2004–05 Celtic League|2004–05]]
| 2nd || 20|| 15 || 1 || 4 || 7 || 69
|-
| [[2005–06 Celtic League|2005–06]]
| 3rd || 20|| 12 || 0 || 8 || 10 || 66{{#tag:ref|11 teams were involved in this season, so one team did not play each week and were awarded 4 points instead.<br>Therefore, each team finished the season with 8 more points than the table would seem to warrant.
|group=n |name=freeweek}}
|-
| [[2006–07 Celtic League|2006–07]]
| 6th || 20|| 12 || 0 || 8 || 6 || 54
|-
| [[2007–08 Celtic League|2007–08]]
| 3rd || 18 || 10 || 1 || 7 || 6 || 48
|-
| [[2008–09 Celtic League|2008–09]]
| 1st || 18 || 14 || 0 || 4 || 8 || 63
|-
|rowspan="2"| [[2009–10 Celtic League|2009–10]]
| 4th || 18 || 9 || 0 || 9 || 9 || 45
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="8"| '''[[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]]''' 16 – 6 Munster
|-
|rowspan="3"| [[2010–11 Celtic League|2010–11]]
| 1st || 22 || 19 || 0 || 3 || 7 || 83
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="8"| '''Munster''' 18 – 11 [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]]
|-
|[[2011 Celtic League Grand Final|Final]]
|colspan="8"| '''Munster''' 19 – 9 [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]]
|-
|rowspan="2"| [[2011–12 Pro12|2011–12]]
| 3rd || 22 || 14 || 1 || 7 || 9 || 67
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="8"| '''[[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]]''' 45 – 10 Munster
|-
|[[2012–13 Pro12|2012–13]]
| 6th || 22 || 11 || 1 || 10 || 8 || 54
|-
|rowspan="2"| [[2013–14 Pro 12|2013–14]]
| 3rd || 22 || 16 || 0 || 6  || 10 || 74
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="8"| '''[[Glasgow Warriors|Glasgow]]''' 16 – 15 Munster
|-
|rowspan="3"| [[2014–15 Pro12|2014–15]]
| 2nd || 22 || 15 || 2 || 5 || 11 || 75
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="8"| '''Munster''' 21 – 18 [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]]
|-
|[[2015 Pro12 Grand Final|Final]]
|colspan="8"| Munster 13 – 31 '''[[Glasgow Warriors|Glasgow]]'''
|-
|rowspan="1"| [[2015–16 Pro12|2015–16]]
| 6th || 22 || 13 || 0 || 9 || 11 || 63
|-
|rowspan="3"|[[2016–17 Pro12|2016–17]]
| 1st || 22 || 19 || 0 || 3 || 10 || 86
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="8"| '''Munster''' 23 – 3 [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]]
|-
|[[2017 Pro12 Grand Final|Final]]
|colspan="8"| Munster 22 – 46 '''[[Scarlets]]'''
|-
|rowspan="3"|[[2017–18 Pro14|2017–18]]
| 2nd (Conf. A) || 21 || 13 || 1 || 7 || 15 || 69
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="8"| '''Munster''' 20 – 16 [[Edinburgh Rugby|Edinburgh]]
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="8"| '''[[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]]''' 16 – 15 Munster
|-
|rowspan="3"|[[2018–19 Pro14|2018–19]]
| 2nd (Conf. A) || 21 || 16 || 0 || 5 || 13 || 77
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="8"| '''Munster''' 15 – 13 [[Benetton Rugby|Benetton]]
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="8"| '''[[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]]''' 24 – 9 Munster
|-
|rowspan="2"|[[2019–20 Pro14|2019–20]]
| 2nd (Conf. B) || 15 || 10 || 0 || 5 || 11 || 51{{#tag:ref|Regular season was reduced to 15 rounds due to COVID-19 pandemic.
|group=n |name=covid}}
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="8"| '''[[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]]''' 13 – 3 Munster
|-
|rowspan="2"|[[2020–21 Pro14|2020–21]]
| 1st (Conf. B) || 16 || 14 || 0 || 2 || 8 || 64{{#tag:ref|Regular season reduced to 16 rounds and a final due to [[Pro14 Rainbow Cup|Rainbow Cup]].
|group=n |name=Rainbow}}
|-
|[[2021 Pro14 Grand Final|Final]]
|colspan="8"| '''[[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]]''' 16 – 6 Munster
|-
|rowspan="2"|[[2021–22 United Rugby Championship|2021–22]]
| 6th || 18 || 11 || 0 || 7 || 12 || 56
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="8"| '''[[Ulster Rugby|Ulster]]''' 36 – 17 Munster
|-
|rowspan="4"|[[2022–23 United Rugby Championship|2022–23]]
| 5th || 18 || 10 || 1 || 7 || 13 || 55
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="8"| [[Glasgow Warriors]] 5 – 14 '''Munster''' 
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="8"| [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]] 15 – 16 '''Munster''' 
|-
|[[2023 United Rugby Championship final|Final]]
|colspan="8"| [[Stormers]] 14 – 19 '''Munster'''
|-
|rowspan="3"|[[2023–24 United Rugby Championship|2023–24]]
| 1st || 18 || 13 || 1 || 4 || 14 || 68
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="8"| '''Munster''' 23 – 7 [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]] 
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="8"| Munster 10 – 17 '''[[Glasgow Warriors]]''' 
|-
|rowspan="2"|[[2024–25 United Rugby Championship|2024–25]]
| 6th || 18 || 9 || 0 || 9 || 15 || 51
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="8"| Munster 24 – 24 '''[[Sharks (rugby union)|Sharks]]''' <small>([[Overtime (sports)#Rugby union|A.E.T.]])</small>{{#tag:ref|Sharks won 6–4 on penalties.
|group=n |name=Penalties}}
|-|align=left|
|colspan="8" style="border:0px"| {{reflist|group=n}}
|}

===European Rugby Champions Cup===
{| class="wikitable collapsible collapsed" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Season
! Pool/Round
! Pos
! Played
! Won
! Drawn
! Lost
! Bonus
! Points
|-
|[[1995–96 Heineken Cup|1995–96]]
| Pool 4 || 2 || 2 || 1 || 0 || 1 || – || 2
|-
|[[1996–97 Heineken Cup|1996–97]]
| Pool 4 || 4 || 4 || 2 || 0 || 2 || – || 4
|-
|[[1997–98 Heineken Cup|1997–98]]
| Pool 4 || 4 || 6 || 2 || 0 || 4 || – || 4
|-
|rowspan="2"|[[1998–99 Heineken Cup|1998–99]]
| Pool 2 || 2 || 6 || 4 || 1 || 1 || – || 9
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| '''[[US Colomiers|Colomiers]]''' 23 – 9 Munster
|-
|rowspan="4"|[[1999–2000 Heineken Cup|1999–00]]
| Pool 4 || 1 || 6 || 5 || 0 || 1 || – || 10
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| '''Munster''' 27 – 10 [[Stade Français]]
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="7"| [[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]] 25 – 31 '''Munster'''
|-
|[[2000 Heineken Cup Final|Final]]
|colspan="7"| '''[[Northampton Saints|Northampton]]''' 9 – 8 Munster
|-
|rowspan="3"|[[2000–01 Heineken Cup|2000–01]]
| Pool 4 || 1 || 6 || 5 || 0 || 1 || – || 10
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| '''Munster''' 38 – 29 [[Biarritz Olympique|Biarritz]]
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="7"| '''[[Stade Français]]''' 16 – 15 Munster
|-
|rowspan="4"|[[2001–02 Heineken Cup|2001–02]]
| Pool 4 || 2 || 6 || 5 || 0 || 1 || – || 10
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| [[Stade Français]] 14 – 16 '''Munster'''
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="7"| [[Castres Olympique|Castres]] 17 – 25 '''Munster'''
|-
|[[2002 Heineken Cup Final|Final]]
|colspan="7"| '''[[Leicester Tigers|Leicester]]''' 15 – 9 Munster
|-
|rowspan="3"|[[2002–03 Heineken Cup|2002–03]]
| Pool 2 || 2 || 6 || 4 || 0 || 2 || – || 8
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| [[Leicester Tigers|Leicester]] 7 – 20 '''Munster'''
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="7"| '''[[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]]''' 13 – 12 Munster
|-
|rowspan="3"|[[2003–04 Heineken Cup|2003–04]]
| Pool 5 || 1 || 6 || 5 || 0 || 1 || 4 || 24
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| '''Munster''' 37 – 32 [[Stade Français]]
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="7"| Munster 32 – 37 '''[[Wasps RFC|Wasps]]'''
|-
|rowspan="2"|[[2004–05 Heineken Cup|2004–05]]
| Pool 4 || 1 || 6 || 5 || 0 || 1 || 2 || 22
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| '''[[Biarritz Olympique|Biarritz]]''' 19 – 10 Munster
|-
|rowspan="4"|[[2005–06 Heineken Cup|2005–06]]
| Pool 1 || 1 || 6 || 5 || 0 || 1 || 3 || 23
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| '''Munster''' 19 – 10 [[USA Perpignan|Perpignan]]
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="7"| [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]] 6 – 30 '''Munster'''
|-
|[[2006 Heineken Cup Final|Final]]
|colspan="7"| [[Biarritz Olympique|Biarritz]] 19 – 23 '''Munster'''
|-
|rowspan="2"|[[2006–07 Heineken Cup|2006–07]]
| Pool 4 || 2 || 6 || 5 || 0 || 1 || 3 || 23
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| '''[[Scarlets]]''' 24 – 15 Munster
|-
|rowspan="4"|[[2007–08 Heineken Cup|2007–08]]
| Pool 5 || 1 || 6 || 4 || 0 || 2 || 3 || 19
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| [[Gloucester Rugby|Gloucester]] 3 – 16 '''Munster'''
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="7"| [[Saracens F.C.|Saracens]] 16 – 18 '''Munster'''
|-
|[[2008 Heineken Cup Final|Final]]
|colspan="7"| [[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]] 13 – 16 '''Munster'''
|-
|rowspan="3"|[[2008–09 Heineken Cup|2008–09]]
| Pool 1 || 1 || 6 || 5 || 0 || 1 || 3 || 23
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| '''Munster''' 43 – 9 [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]]
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="7"| Munster 6 – 25 '''[[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]]'''
|-
|rowspan="3"|[[2009–10 Heineken Cup|2009–10]]
| Pool 1 || 1 || 6 || 5 || 0 || 1 || 4 || 24
|-
|Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| '''Munster''' 33 – 19 [[Northampton Saints|Northampton]]
|-
|Semi-final
|colspan="7"| '''[[Biarritz Olympique|Biarritz]]''' 18 – 7 Munster
|-
|[[2010–11 Heineken Cup|2010–11]]
| Pool 3 || 2 || 6 || 3 || 0 || 3 || 4 || 16
|-
|rowspan="2"|[[2011–12 Heineken Cup|2011–12]]
| Pool 1 || 1 || 6 || 6 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 25
|-
| Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| Munster 16 – 22 '''[[Ulster Rugby|Ulster]]'''
|-
|rowspan="3"|[[2012–13 Heineken Cup|2012–13]]
| Pool 1 || 2 || 6 || 4 || 0 || 2 || 4 || 20
|-
| Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| [[Harlequin F.C.|Harlequins]] 12 – 18 '''Munster'''
|-
| Semi-final
|colspan="7"| '''[[ASM Clermont Auvergne|Clermont]]''' 16 – 10 Munster
|-
|rowspan="3"|[[2013–14 Heineken Cup|2013–14]]
| Pool 6 || 1 || 6 || 5 || 0 || 1 || 3 || 23
|-
| Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| '''Munster''' 47 – 23 [[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]]
|-
| Semi-final
|colspan="7"| '''[[RC Toulonnais|Toulon]]''' 24 – 16 Munster
|-
|[[2014–15 European Rugby Champions Cup|2014–15]]
| Pool 1 || 3 || 6 || 3 || 0 || 3 || 3 || 15
|-
|[[2015–16 European Rugby Champions Cup|2015–16]]
| Pool 4 || 3 || 6 || 3 || 0 || 3 || 3 || 15
|-
|rowspan="3"|[[2016–17 European Rugby Champions Cup|2016–17]]
| Pool 1 || 1 || 6 || 5 || 0 || 1 || 4 || 24
|-
| Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| '''Munster''' 41 – 16 [[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]]
|-
| Semi-final
|colspan="7"| Munster 10 – 26 '''[[Saracens F.C.|Saracens]]'''
|-
|rowspan="3"|[[2017–18 European Rugby Champions Cup|2017–18]]
| Pool 4 || 1 || 6 || 4 || 1 || 1 || 3 || 21
|-
| Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| '''Munster''' 20 – 19 [[RC Toulonnais|Toulon]]
|-
| Semi-final
|colspan="7"| '''[[Racing 92]]''' 27 – 22 Munster
|-
|rowspan="3"|[[2018–19 European Rugby Champions Cup|2018–19]]
| Pool 2 || 1 || 6 || 4 || 1 || 1 || 3 || 21
|-
| Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| [[Edinburgh Rugby|Edinburgh]] 13 – 17 '''Munster'''
|-
| Semi-final
|colspan="7"| '''[[Saracens F.C.|Saracens]]''' 32 – 16 Munster
|-
|[[2019–20 European Rugby Champions Cup|2019–20]]
| Pool 4 || 3 || 6 || 3 || 1 || 2 || 2 || 16
|-
|rowspan="2"|[[2020–21 European Rugby Champions Cup|2020–21]]
| Pool B || 4 || 2 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 8{{#tag:ref|Final two pools games of revised 2020–21 tournament cancelled due to French government decision to prevent their teams from travelling abroad for fixtures due to COVID-19.
|group=n |name=Covid}}
|-
| Last 16
|colspan="7"| Munster 33 – 40 '''[[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]]'''
|-
|rowspan="4"|[[2021–22 European Rugby Champions Cup|2021–22]]
| Pool B || 3 || 4 || 4 || 0 || 0 || 2 || 18
|-
| Last 16 (1st leg)
|colspan="7"| '''[[Exeter Chiefs]]''' 13 – 8 Munster
|-
| Last 16 (2nd leg)
|colspan="7"| '''Munster''' 26 – 10 Exeter Chiefs{{#tag:ref|Munster won 34–23 on aggregate.
|group=n |name=Last 16}}
|-
| Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| Munster 24 – 24 [[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]] <small>([[Overtime (sports)#Rugby union|A.E.T.]])</small>{{#tag:ref|Toulouse won 4–2 on penalties.
|group=n |name=Penalties}}
|-
|rowspan="2"|[[2022–23 European Rugby Champions Cup|2022–23]]
| Pool B || 6 || 4 || 2 || 0 || 2 || 2 || 10
|-
| Last 16
|colspan="7"| '''[[Sharks (rugby union)|Sharks]]''' 50 – 35 Munster
|-
|rowspan="2"|[[2023–24 European Rugby Champions Cup|2023–24]]
| Pool C || 4 || 6 || 1 || 1 || 2 || 3 || 9
|-
| Last 16
|colspan="7"| '''[[Northampton Saints]]''' 24 – 14 Munster
|-
|rowspan="3"|[[2024–25 European Rugby Champions Cup|2024–25]]
| Pool 3 || 3 || 4 || 2 || 0 || 2 || 4 || 12
|-
| Last 16
|colspan="7"| [[Stade Rochelais]] 24 – 25 '''Munster'''
|-
| Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| '''[[Union Bordeaux Bègles]]''' 47 – 29 Munster
|-|align=left|
|colspan="8" style="border:0px"| {{reflist|group=n}}
|}

===European Rugby Challenge Cup===
{| class="wikitable collapsible collapsed" style="text-align:center;"
|-
! Season
! Round
! Result
|-
|rowspan="2"|[[2010–11 European Challenge Cup|2010–11]]
| Quarter-final
|colspan="7"| [[CA Brive|Brive]] 37 – 42 '''Munster'''
|-
| Semi-final
|colspan="7"| Munster 12 – 20 '''[[Harlequin F.C.|Harlequins]]'''
|-
|}

==Current standings==

===United Rugby Championship===
{{2024–25 United Rugby Championship table}}

{{2024–25 United Rugby Championship regional pools}}

===European Rugby Champions Cup===

{{2023–24 European Rugby Champions Cup Pool C table}}

==Honours==
{| class="wikitable"
! colspan="8"| Honours
|-
! Competition
! Winners
! Season(s)
! Runners-up
! Season(s)
|-
| '''[[European Rugby Champions Cup]]'''<ref group=note>Formerly known as Heineken Cup</ref>
| style="text-align:center" | 2
| [[2005–06 Heineken Cup|2005–06]], [[2007–08 Heineken Cup|2007–08]]
| style="text-align:center" | 2
| [[1999–2000 Heineken Cup|1999–2000]], [[2001–02 Heineken Cup|2001–02]]
|-
| '''[[United Rugby Championship]]'''<ref group=note>Formerly known as Celtic League/Magners League/Pro12/Pro14</ref>
| style="text-align:center" | 4
| [[2002–03 Celtic League|2002–03]], [[2008–09 Celtic League|2008–09]], [[2010–11 Celtic League|2010–11]], [[2022–23 United Rugby Championship|2022–23]]
| style="text-align:center" | 5
| [[2001–02 Celtic League|2001–02]], [[2004–05 Celtic League|2004–05]], [[2014–15 Pro12|2014–15]], [[2016–17 Pro12|2016–17]], [[2020–21 Pro14|2020–21]]
|-
| '''[[British & Irish Cup]]'''<ref group=note>Contested from 2009 to 2018</ref>
| style="text-align:center" | 2
| [[2011–12 British and Irish Cup|2011–12]], [[2016–17 British and Irish Cup|2016–17]]
| style="text-align:center" | 1
| [[2009–10 British and Irish Cup|2009–10]]
|-
| '''[[Celtic Cup (rugby union)|Celtic Cup]]'''<ref group=note>Contested from 2003 to 2005</ref>
| style="text-align:center" | 1
| 2004–05
| style="text-align:center" | ——
| style="text-align:center" | ——
|-
| '''[[IRFU Interprovincial Championship]]'''<ref group=note>Contested from 1946 to 2002 – Bold indicates Grand Slam; * indicates shared title; years shown are season ending years</ref><ref name="The Ireland Rugby Miscellany 2007">''The Ireland Rugby Miscellany'' (2007): Ciaran Cronin</ref>
| style="text-align:center" | 22
| 1947–48, 1952–53, 1954–55, '''1957–58''', '''1959–60''', '''1962–63''', '''1965–66''', 1966–67*, '''1968–69''', 1972–73*, 1973–74, 1975–76*, 1977–78*, '''1978–79''', 1982–83*, 1987–88*, 1993–94*, '''1994–95''', '''1996–97''', 1998–99, '''1999–2000''', 2000–01
| style="text-align:center" | ''N/A''
| style="text-align:center" | ''N/A''
|-
| '''Setanta Challenge Cup'''<ref group=note>Contested from 2007 to 2008</ref>
| style="text-align:center" | 2
| 2007,<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2007/08/27/munster-claim-setanta-challenge-cup/|title=Munster Claim Setanta Challenge Cup |date=27 August 2007|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 August 2021}}</ref> 2008<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report/munster-retain-the-setanta-cup/|title=Munster Retain The Setanta Cup|date=31 August 2008|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=25 August 2021}}</ref>
| style="text-align:center" | ——
| style="text-align:center" | ——
|-
|}

==Colours and crest==
[[Image:Flag of Munster.svg|thumb|Flag of the province of Munster]]

The 'three crowns' flag of Munster Rugby derives from the historic [[coat of arms of Munster]], which reputedly alludes to the three constituent historic kingdoms of Munster; [[Thomond]] in the north, [[County Desmond|Desmond]] in the south, and [[Kings of Osraige|Ormond]] in the east.

A revamped logo was introduced for the 2003–04 season which included the addition of a stag with the three crowns.<ref name="newcrest">{{cite news|url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-10124797.html|title=New Munster kit and logo to save revenue, not exploit fans|date=3 July 2003|work=[[Irish Examiner]]|access-date=13 March 2007}}</ref> The new crest was designed by the Limerick graphic design and branding agency ''Designer's Ink'', who received a Gold Award in the Irish Design Effectiveness Awards for the branding and implementation of Munster Rugby.<ref name="crestdesign">{{cite news|url=http://www.designers-ink.ie/branding-and-design/munster-rugby-logo|title= Munster crest and branding implementation by Designers Ink|date=1 July 2003|work=Designer's Ink|access-date=23 June 2016}}</ref> The crest was designed to maintain the three crowns and the new red stag symbolises strength and competitiveness.<ref name="newcrest"/> The decision for change was a product of two years of planning of research and design.<ref name="newcrest"/>

Munster's kit is made by [[Adidas]], who replaced [[Canterbury of New Zealand|Canterbury]] in 2007 in a deal initially covering kit supply for three seasons. Between 2004 and 2013, [[Toyota]] was Munster's primary sponsor, appearing on the front of their jersey. On 23 May 2013, it was announced on that [[Bank of Ireland]] would be replacing [[Toyota]] as Munster's sponsor.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2013/05/23/munster-team-up-again-with-bank-of-ireland/|title=Munster Team Up Again With Bank of Ireland|date=23 May 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=23 May 2013}}</ref> In April 2017, the deal with Bank of Ireland was extended until the end of the 2022–23 season.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2017/04/13/bank-of-ireland-to-lineout-with-munster-until-2023/|title=Bank of Ireland To Lineout With Munster Until 2023|date=13 April 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 April 2017}}</ref> In August 2017, Munster announced that [[Shannon Airport]] had become its 'official airport partner' in a three-year deal, which would see the Shannon Airport logo appear on the players' shorts from the 2017–18 season onwards.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2017/08/31/munster-partner-with-shannon-airport/|title=Munster Partner With Shannon Airport|date=31 August 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=1 September 2017}}</ref> The deals with kit manufacturer Adidas and retail partner LifeStyle Sports were extended in July 2019 until the end of the 2025–26 season.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2019/07/09/munster-rugby-extend-partnerships-with-adidas-and-life-style-sports/|title=Munster Rugby Extend Partnerships With adidas And Life Style Sports|date=9 July 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=10 July 2019}}</ref>

==Home grounds==
[[File:Thomond Park.jpg|thumbnail|right|[[Thomond Park]]]]

Munster have two main stadia where they play their home matches – [[Thomond Park]] in [[Limerick]] and [[Musgrave Park, Cork|Musgrave Park]] in [[Cork (city)|Cork]]. Thomond Park is the bigger of the two, with a capacity of 25,600, which can be expanded up to 26,267 with temporary seating, while Musgrave Park holds 8,800.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2023/09/04/squad-operations-update-munster-men-v-leinster-in-cork/#post|title=Squad & Operations Update {{!}} Munster Men v Leinster In Cork|date=4 September 2023|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=9 September 2023}}</ref> As well as Munster, [[Shannon RFC|Shannon]] and [[UL Bohemians R.F.C.|UL Bohemians]] play at the grounds of Thomond Park. Thomond Park is famous for its atmosphere and unique history<ref name="thomond">{{cite web|url=https://worldstadia.com/thomond-park.html| title=Details for Thomond Park, Limerick|work=World Stadia|access-date=13 March 2007}}</ref> – its noise during play and complete silence when a player (home or away) is kicking at goal. It was also famous for Munster's intimidating record that it held for over a decade – having never been beaten at home during the Heineken Cup. However, the record was broken during the [[2006–07 Heineken Cup|2006–07]] season when they were defeated by Leicester Tigers.<ref name="Leicesterwin">{{cite news|url=https://www.epcrugby.com/report/tigers-storm-thomond-park/|title=Tigers storm Thomond Park|work=EPC Rugby|access-date=13 March 2007}}</ref> Munster train in the [[University of Limerick]].

Thomond Park went through a major renovation in 1999 and in 2006, Munster announced plans to upgrade it. In autumn 2008, the new 25,600 capacity stadium was opened. Two sweeping arches are one of the defining features of the stadium, as well as the concourse outside of the new East Stand. The new stadium design was well received and won the Public Choice Award for 2009 from the Irish Architecture Foundation. A long discussion and consultation on the new name concluded with the decision that the name would remain ''Thomond Park''.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.irishtimes.com/sports/rugby/2008/0221/1203471576676.html|title=Thomond to keep its name|date=21 February 2008|newspaper=[[The Irish Times]]|access-date=15 June 2008}}</ref>

==Supporters==
[[Image:Munster rugby 2006.jpg|thumb|left|Thousands of fans watch the [[2006 Heineken Cup Final]] in [[Limerick]].]]

The Munster Rugby Supporters Club was founded in 1999 and has branches in [[Brussels]], [[Dublin]], [[London]] and the [[United States]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.mrsc.ie/membership/about-us/|title=Munster Rugby Supporters Club {{!}} About Us|work=Munster Rugby Supporters Club|access-date=27 November 2022}}</ref> The strength of Munster's support was demonstrated during Munster's [[2006 Heineken Cup Final|2006]] and [[2008 Heineken Cup Final|2008 Heineken Cup final]] wins. News reports detailed the lengths that fans were willing to go to secure tickets to the game, with some Munster fans travelling to Biarritz to buy up the French allocation of tickets. On the day of the game the [[Millennium Stadium]] in [[Cardiff]] was filled with a capacity crowd of 74,500. Of those numbers it is estimated that somewhere between 55,000 and 65,000 were Munster fans with the remainder being neutrals and [[Biarritz Olympique|Biarritz]] supporters. The Millennium Stadium was intended to be a neutral venue but commentators on the day remarked that it could hardly be counted as such.

Munster played in the most attended semi-final match of the Heineken Cup. 82,208 spectators attended their [[2008–09 Heineken Cup]] semi-final against Irish rivals [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]], which was played in [[Croke Park]], Dublin. This was also, at the time, the largest crowd ever at a club rugby union match. The record was broken in a league game between English sides [[Saracens F.C.|Saracens]] and [[Harlequin F.C.|Harlequins]] in 2012.

Munster's appearance in the [[2002 Heineken Cup Final|2002 final]] of the Heineken Cup against [[Leicester Tigers]] at the [[Millennium Stadium]], which drew 74,600, was the record attendance for a final in the competition<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.epcrugby.com/report/the-seventh-heineken-cup-final/#report|title=The seventh Heineken Cup final|work=EPC Rugby|access-date=13 March 2007}}</ref> until the [[2007 Heineken Cup Final|2007 Heineken Cup final]] between Leicester and [[Wasps RFC|London Wasps]] at the newly expanded [[Twickenham Stadium|Twickenham]]. Munster's 2005 quarter-final against [[Biarritz Olympique]] in [[Estadio Anoeta]], played across the border in Spain in [[San Sebastián]] set the record for the biggest rugby match ever played in Spain with an attendance of 32,000.<ref name="sanseb">{{cite news|url=https://www.epcrugby.com/report/biarritz-move-into-final-four/#report|title=Biarritz Move Into Final Four|work=EPC Rugby| access-date=13 March 2007}}</ref> Their October 2006 Celtic League game against Leinster at Lansdowne Road beat the record for that competition with an attendance of 27,252.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/rugby_union/my_club/leinster/5406318.stm|title=Leinster 27–20 Munster|date=6 October 2006|work=BBC Sport|access-date=13 March 2007}}</ref> This record lasted just two months however, with the [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]] and [[Ulster Rugby|Ulster]] match on 31 December 2006 filling Lansdowne Road (over 48,000 in attendance) for the last match at the stadium before redevelopment.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/rugby_union/irish/6182811.stm|title=The final curtain|date=22 December 2006|work=BBC Sport|access-date=13 March 2007}}</ref>

On 2 October 2010, Munster played [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]] in the round 5 of the [[United Rugby Championship|Celtic League]] at the [[Aviva Stadium]], this set a new crowd attendance record for a Celtic League game at 50,645.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.unitedrugby.com/latest/match-report/leinster-overcome-munster-in-front-of-record-crowd|title=Leinster overcome Munster in front of record crowd|date=1 October 2010|work=United Rugby|access-date=2 October 2010}}</ref> On 26 December 2017, a new attendance record for Thomond Park in the Pro14 was set when 26,267 were at the Munster v Leinster fixture.<ref name="Stats & Pics: Season So Far"/>

Munster fans are known for their silence when a kick is being taken, but also for their noise. Fans repeatedly chant "MUNSTER" or sing "[[The Fields of Athenry]]" (an [[Great Famine (Ireland)|Irish famine]] song from Galway, Connacht) and "Stand Up and Fight" (from the Broadway musical ''[[Carmen Jones#Songs|Carmen Jones]]'').<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-stand-up-and-fight-origin-5079673-Apr2020/|title=From Bizet to O'Brien: How Stand Up and Fight became a Munster anthem|date=28 April 2020|work=[[TheJournal.ie#The42.ie|The42]]|access-date=28 April 2020}}</ref> They sang "[[The Black Velvet Band]]" to the [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]]' Irish winger [[Tommy Bowe]] during their 2009 Heineken Cup quarter-final encounter. Tommy Bowe sang this song at the official reception for the [[2009 Six Nations Championship|2009 Grand Slam]] winning Ireland rugby team. Munster Rugby has given the word "Garryowen" to the rugby lexicon. The Limerick club of [[Garryowen Football Club|Garryowen]] introduced the "Garryowen kick", a high up-and-under which puts defending players under pressure. Shortly after the 2018 death of [[Dolores O'Riordan]], lead singer of [[The Cranberries]] (a band formed in Limerick), Munster fans adopted the band's song "[[Zombie (The Cranberries song)|Zombie]]" as an unofficial anthem.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-union/zombie-song-lyrics-ireland-rugby-world-cup-b2429738.html |title=Zombie: Why Ireland's Rugby World Cup anthem is causing controversy |first=Luke |last=Baker |newspaper=The Independent |date=14 October 2023 |access-date=14 October 2023}}</ref> The song's status was further cemented during the 2021–22 season, with the hit single featuring prominently in Munster's defeat against [[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]] in May 2022 and in their win against a [[South Africa national rugby union team|South Africa XV]] in [[Páirc Uí Chaoimh]] in November 2022.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-van-graan-scannell-5758060-May2022/|title='It can't be the peak' - Munster must rebound for next trip to Dublin|date=9 May 2022|work=[[TheJournal.ie#The42.ie|The42]]|access-date=27 November 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://extra.ie/2022/05/08/sport/rugby/munster-fans-aviva-cranberries|title=Watch: Munster fans burst into rendition of a Cranberries classic in spine-tingling scenes at the Aviva|date=8 May 2022|work=[[DMG Media#Other services|Extra.ie]]|access-date=27 November 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/munster-pairc-ui-chaoimh-5916449-Nov2022/|title=Zombie, Zebo, The Fields - Munster must return to the Páirc soon|date=11 November 2022|work=[[TheJournal.ie#The42.ie|The42]]|access-date=27 November 2022}}</ref>

==Munster A==
{{anchor|MunsterA}}
Munster A is the team that represents Munster in the [[Celtic Cup (2018 rugby union tournament)|Celtic Cup]] and in the [[IRFU Interprovincial Championship]]. Pre-professionalism and a formal league structure, the main Munster team competed in the IRFU Interprovincial Championship. Since the advent of professionalism, the provinces have fielded lesser teams in order to concentrate on the [[United Rugby Championship|league]]. The team is composed of senior Munster squad players requiring gametime, academy players and [[All-Ireland League (rugby union)|All-Ireland League]] players called up from their club.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishrugby.ie/2010/05/24/munster-welcome-new-academy-players-on-board/|title=Munster Welcome New Academy Players On Board|date=24 May 2010|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=28 August 2021}}</ref>

Having been beaten finalists in the [[2009–10 British and Irish Cup]], losing 23–14 to [[Cornish Pirates]],<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2010/05/16/british-irish-cup-defeat/|title=British & Irish Cup Defeat|date=16 May 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=29 April 2012}}</ref> Munster A secured success in the [[British and Irish Cup]] on 27 April 2012, beating [[Cross Keys RFC|Cross Keys]] 31–12 in the final of the [[2011–12 British and Irish Cup|2011–12]] tournament at Musgrave Park.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report_nostats/munster-prove-too-strong/|title=Munster Prove Too Strong|date=27 April 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=29 April 2012}}</ref> On 21 April 2017, Munster A won their second British and Irish Cup, beating English [[RFU Championship]] side [[Jersey Reds]] 29–28 in the [[2016–17 British and Irish Cup|2016–17]] final, which was held in Musgrave Park. At one point during the first half, Munster A had been losing 18–0, but fought back to secure victory.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/report_nostats/munster-a-claim-bi-cup-title-after-cork-rollercoaster/|title=Munster A Claim B&I Cup Title After Cork Rollercoaster|date=21 April 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=22 April 2017}}</ref>

With 2017–18 being the last season in which the [[British and Irish Cup]] was held, the [[Welsh Rugby Union]] and [[Irish Rugby Football Union]] formed a new tournament, the [[Celtic Cup (2018 rugby union tournament)|Celtic Cup]], which features development squads from the four Irish provinces and four Welsh regions, split into two pools of four. The first tournament ran over seven consecutive weeks between 7 September 2018 and 21 October 2018.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2018/08/15/irfu-wru-launch-the-celtic-cup-to-develop-emerging-talent/|title=IRFU & WRU Launch The Celtic Cup to Develop Emerging Talent|date=15 August 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=16 August 2018}}</ref>

==Senior squad==

===Coaching and management staff===

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Position
! Name
! Nationality 
|-
| Head coach
| [[Clayton McMillan]]
| {{flagicon|NZL}}[[New Zealand]]
|-
| Attack coach
| [[Mike Prendergast (rugby union)|Mike Prendergast]]
| {{flag|Ireland|rugby union|name=Ireland}}
|-
| Forwards coach
| [[Alex Codling]]
| {{flag|England|rugby union|name=England}}
|-
| Defence coach
| [[Denis Leamy]]
| {{flag|Ireland|rugby union|name=Ireland}}
|-
| Skills coach
| [[Mossy Lawler]]
| {{flag|Ireland|rugby union|name=Ireland}}
|-
| Performance analyst and technical coach
| George Murray
| {{flag|Ireland|rugby union|name=Ireland}}
|-
| Team manager
| [[Martyn Vercoe]]
| {{flagicon|NZL}}[[New Zealand]]
|-
| Head of rugby operations
| Ian Costello
|{{flag|Ireland|rugby union|name=Ireland}}
|-
| Head of athletic performance
| Brad Mayo
| {{flagicon|NZL}}[[New Zealand]]
|-
| Strength and conditioning coach
| Adam Sheehan
| {{flag|Ireland|rugby union|name=Ireland}}
|}

===Senior squad===
{{For|player movements before or during the [[2024–25 United Rugby Championship|2024–25 season]]|List of 2024–25 United Rugby Championship transfers#Munster}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:left; font-size:90%; width:70%"
|-
! colspan="100%" | Munster Rugby senior squad
|- valign="top"
|
'''Props'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Mark Donnelly (rugby union)|Mark Donnelly]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} '''[[Oli Jager]]'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} '''[[Jeremy Loughman]]'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} '''[[Michael Milne]]'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} '''[[John Ryan (rugby union, born 1988)|John Ryan]]'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Roman Salanoa]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Josh Wycherley]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Kieran Ryan]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Conor Bartley]]

'''Hookers'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Diarmuid Barron]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Lee Barron (rugby union)|Lee Barron]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} '''[[Niall Scannell]]'''

'''Locks'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} '''[[Thomas Ahern (rugby union)|Thomas Ahern]]'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} '''[[Tadhg Beirne]]''' ([[Captain (sports)|c]])
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Edwin Edogbo]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Evan O'Connell]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Conor Ryan]]
* {{flagicon|RSA}} '''[[Jean Kleyn]]'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} '''[[Fineen Wycherley]]'''

||

'''Back row'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} '''[[Gavin Coombes]]'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Brian Gleeson (rugby union)|Brian Gleeson]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[John Hodnett]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} '''[[Alex Kendellen]]'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Ruadhán Quinn]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} '''[[Jack O'Donoghue]]'''

'''Scrum-halves'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} '''[[Craig Casey]]'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Ethan Coughlan]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Paddy Patterson]]

'''Fly-halves'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Tony Butler (rugby union)|Tony Butler]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} '''[[Jack Crowley]]'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[JJ Hanrahan]]

||

'''Centres'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Tom Farrell (rugby union)|Tom Farrell]]
* {{flagicon|NZL}} [[Alex Nankivell]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Seán O'Brien (rugby union, born 1998)|Seán O'Brien]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Dan Kelly (rugby union)|Dan Kelly]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Fionn Gibbons]]

'''Back three'''
* {{flagicon|RSA}} [[Thaakir Abrahams]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} '''[[Shane Daly]]'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} '''[[Mike Haley (rugby union)|Mike Haley]]'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Diarmuid Kilgallen]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Shay McCarthy]]
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} '''[[Calvin Nash]]'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Andrew Smith (rugby union, born 2000)|Andrew Smith]]

|-
| colspan="100%" style="height: 10px;" | 
|-
| colspan="100%" style="text-align:center;" | ([[Captain (sports)|c]]) denotes the team captain, '''Bold''' denotes internationally capped players. <br/> <sup>*</sup> denotes players qualified to play for Ireland on residency or dual nationality. <br> <sup>ST</sup> denotes a short-term signing.<br/> <sup>L</sup> denotes a player on loan at the club. <br/> Players and their allocated positions from the Munster Rugby website.<ref name="Munster Rugby|1st Team Squad">{{cite web|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/teams/munster-squad|title=Munster Rugby {{!}} 1st Team Squad|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=15 July 2023}}</ref>{{notelist|group=Squad}}
|}

==Academy squad==

===Coaching and management staff===

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Position
! Name
! Nationality
|-
| Academy and pathway manager
| Gearóid Prendergast
| {{flag|Ireland|rugby union|name=Ireland}}
|-
| Elite player development officer
| Brendan O'Connor
| {{flag|Ireland|rugby union|name=Ireland}}
|-
| Elite player development officer
| [[Tommy O'Donnell]]
| {{flag|Ireland|rugby union|name=Ireland}}
|-
| Pathway development coach
| Matt Brown
| {{flag|Ireland|rugby union|name=Ireland}}
|-
| National talent coach
| Mark Butler
| {{flag|Ireland|rugby union|name=Ireland}}
|-
| Strength and conditioning coach
| Danielle Cunningham
| {{flag|Ireland|rugby union|name=Ireland}}
|-
|}

===Academy squad===

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:left; font-size:90%; width:70%"
|-
! colspan="100%" | Munster Rugby academy squad
|- valign="top"
|
'''Props'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Emmet Calvey '''(1)'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} George Hadden '''(3)'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Ronan Foxe '''(3)'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Darragh McSweeney '''(4)'''

'''Hookers'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Danny Sheahan '''(2)'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Max Clein '''(3)'''

'''Locks'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Conor Kennelly '''(1)'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Michael Foy '''(2)'''

||

'''Back row'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Oisin Minogue '''(1)'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Seán Edogbo '''(2)'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Luke Murphy '''(2)'''

'''Scrum-halves'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Jake O'Riordan '''(2)'''

'''Fly-halves'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Dylan Hicks '''(3)'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Tom Wood '''(1)'''

||

'''Centres'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Eoghan Smyth '''(1)'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Gordon Wood '''(2)'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} Gene O'Leary Kareem '''(2)'''

'''Back three'''
* {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Ben O'Connor (rugby union)|Ben O'Connor]] '''(3)'''

|-
| colspan="100%" style="height: 10px;" | 
|-
| colspan="100%" style="text-align:center;" | '''Bold''' denotes internationally capped players, number in brackets indicates players stage in the three-year academy cycle. <br/> <sup>*</sup> denotes players qualified to play for Ireland on residency or dual nationality. <br/> Players and their allocated positions from the Munster Rugby website.<ref name="Munster Rugby|Academy Squad">{{cite web|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2024/06/21/munster-rugby-confirm-academy-squad-for-2024-25/|title=Munster Rugby Confirm Academy Squad For 2024/25|work=Munster Rugby|date=21 June 2024|access-date=7 July 2024}}</ref>{{notelist|group=Squad}}
|}

==Results against touring international teams==
{| class="wikitable collapsible collapsed" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Date
! Country
! Location
! Score
! Result
|-
|1905 || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[The Original All Blacks|New Zealand]] || [[Markets Field]] || 0–33 || Lost
|-
|[[1947–48 Australia rugby union tour of Britain, Ireland, France and North America|1947]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Australia}} [[Australia national rugby union team|Australia]] || [[Mardyke (UCC)|The Mardkye]] || 5–6 || Lost
|-
|[[1951–52 South Africa rugby union tour of Europe|1951]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|South Africa|1928}} [[South Africa national rugby union team|South Africa]] || [[Thomond Park]] || 6–11 || Lost
|-
|[[1953–54 New Zealand rugby union tour of Britain, Ireland, France and North America|1954]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[New Zealand national rugby union team|New Zealand]] || The Mardyke || 3–6 || Lost
|-
|[[1957–58 Australia rugby union tour of Britain, Ireland and France|1958]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Australia}} Australia || Thomond Park || 3–3 || Draw
|-
|[[1960–61 South Africa rugby union tour of Europe|1960]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|South Africa|1928}} South Africa || [[Musgrave Park, Cork|Musgrave Park]] || 3–9 || Lost
|-
|1962 || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Canada|1957}} [[Canada national rugby union team|Canada]] || Musgrave Park || 11–8 || Won
|-
|[[1963–64 New Zealand rugby union tour of Britain, Ireland, France and North America|1963]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand || Thomond Park || 3–6 || Lost
|-
|[[1966–67 Australia rugby union tour of Britain, Ireland and France|1967]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Australia}} Australia || Musgrave Park || 11–8 || Won
|-
|[[1969–70 South Africa rugby union tour of Britain and Ireland|1970]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|South Africa|1928}} South Africa || Thomond Park || 9–25 || Lost
|-
|[[1972–73 New Zealand rugby union tour of Britain, Ireland, France and North America|1973]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand || Musgrave Park || 3–3 || Drew
|-
|[[1973 Argentina rugby union tour of Ireland and Scotland|1973]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Argentina}} [[Argentina national rugby union team|Argentina]] || Thomond Park || 12–12 || Drew
|-
|[[1974 New Zealand rugby union tour of Ireland, Wales and England|1974]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand || Thomond Park || 4–14 || Lost
|-
|[[1975–76 Australia rugby union tour of Britain, Ireland and the United States|1976]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Australia }} Australia || Musgrave Park || 13–15 || Lost
|-
|[[1978 New Zealand rugby union tour of Britain and Ireland|1978]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand || Thomond Park || 12–0 || Won
|-
|[[1980 Romania rugby union tour of Ireland|1980]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Romania|1965}} [[Romania national rugby union team|Romania]] || Thomond Park || 9–32 || Lost
|-
|[[1981–82 Australia rugby union tour of Britain and Ireland#Munster|1981]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Australia}} Australia || Musgrave Park || 15–6 || Won
|-
|[[1984 Australia rugby union tour of Britain and Ireland|1984]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Australia}} Australia ||Thomond Park || 19–31 || Lost
|-
|[[1989 New Zealand rugby union tour of Canada and the British Isles#Munster vs New Zealand|1989]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand || Musgrave Park  || 9–31 || Lost
|-
|1990 || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|USSR}} [[Soviet Union national rugby union team|USSR]] || [[Clonmel#Sport|Clonmel]]|| 15–19 || Lost
|-
|[[1992 Australia rugby union tour of Europe|1992]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Australia}} Australia || Musgrave Park || 22–19 || Won
|-
|[[1996 Western Samoa rugby union tour of British Isles|1996]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Samoa}} [[Samoa national rugby union team|Samoa]] || Musgrave Park || 25–35 || Lost
|-
|[[1996 Australia rugby union tour of Europe|1996]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Australia}} Australia || Thomond Park || 19–55 || Lost
|-
|1998 || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Morocco}} [[Morocco national rugby union team|Morocco]] || Thomond Park || 49–17 || Won
|-
|[[2008 New Zealand rugby union tour#Munster|2008]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand || Thomond Park || 16–18 || Lost
|-
|[[2010 end-of-year rugby union internationals|2010]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Australia}} Australia || Thomond Park || 15–6 || Won
|-
|[[2016 end-of-year rugby union internationals#Week 2|2016]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[Māori All Blacks]] || Thomond Park || 27–14 || Won
|-
|[[2022 end-of-year rugby union internationals#10 November|2022]] || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|South Africa}} [[South Africa national rugby union team|South Africa XV]] || [[Páirc Uí Chaoimh]] || 28–14 || Won
|-
|2023 || style="text-align:left;"| [[Barbarian F.C.|Barbarians]] || Thomond Park || 47–35 || Won
|-
|2024 || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[All Blacks XV]] || Thomond Park || 24–38 || Lost
|-

|2025 || style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Argentina}} [[Argentina XV]] || Thomond Park || 31-28 || Won
|-

|}

==Record against United Rugby Championship and European Cup opponents==

{| class = "wikitable collapsible sortable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Against
! Played†
! Won
! Drawn
! Lost
! % Won
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|ITA}} [[Aironi]] || 4 || 3 || 0 || 1 || 75.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|ENG}} [[Bath Rugby|Bath]] || 2 || 1 || 0 || 1 || 50.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|FRA}} [[Aviron Bayonnais|Bayonne]] || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 100.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|ITA}} [[Benetton Rugby|Benetton]] || 29 || 25 || 1 || 3 || {{#expr:25/29*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|FRA}} [[Biarritz Olympique|Biarritz]] || 4 || 2 || 0 || 2 || 50.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|SCO}} [[Border Reivers (rugby)|Border Reivers]] || 8 || 8 || 0 || 0 || 100.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|FRA}} [[CS Bourgoin-Jallieu|Bourgoin]] || 6 || 5 || 0 || 1 || 83.33%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|WAL}} [[Bridgend Ravens|Bridgend]] || 2 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 100.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|FRA}} [[CA Brive|Brive]] || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 100.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|RSA}} {{Rut|Bulls}} || 4 || 2 || 0 || 2 || 50.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|WAL}} [[Caerphilly RFC|Caerphilly]] || 2 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 100.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|FRA}} [[Castres Olympique|Castres]] || 19 || 13 || 1 || 5 || {{#expr:13/19*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|WAL}} [[Cardiff Rugby|Cardiff]] || 47 || 29 || 0 || 18 || {{#expr:29/47*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|WAL}} [[Celtic Warriors]] || 2 || 1 || 0 || 1 || 50.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|RSA}} [[Cheetahs (rugby union)|Cheetahs]] || 5 || 4 || 0 || 1 || 80.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|FRA}} [[ASM Clermont Auvergne|Clermont]] || 8 || 3 || 0 || 5 || 37.50%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|FRA}} [[US Colomiers|Colomiers]] || 3 || 2 || 0 || 1 || 66.67%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Connacht Rugby|Connacht]] || [[History of rugby union matches between Munster and Connacht|47]] || 37 || 1 || 9 || {{#expr:37/47*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|WAL}} [[Dragons RFC|Dragons]] || 38 || 29 || 0 || 9 || {{#expr:29/38*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|WAL}} [[Ebbw Vale RFC|Ebbw Vale]] || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 100.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|SCO}} [[Edinburgh Rugby|Edinburgh]] || 45 || 35 || 0 || 10 || {{#expr:35/45*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|ENG}} [[Exeter Chiefs]] || 5 || 2 || 3 || 0 || 40.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|SCO}} [[Glasgow Warriors]] || 43 || 25 || 1 || 17 || {{#expr:25/43*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|ENG}} [[Gloucester Rugby|Gloucester]] || 9 || 7 || 0 || 2 || 77.77%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|ENG}} [[Harlequin F.C.|Harlequins]] || 9 || 7 || 0 || 2 || 77.77%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|WAL}} [[Llanelli RFC|Llanelli]] || 2 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 100.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|ENG}} [[Leicester Tigers]] || 10 || 5 || 0 || 5 || 50.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Leinster Rugby|Leinster]] || [[History of rugby union matches between Leinster and Munster|57]] || 19 || 1 || 37 || {{#expr:19/57*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|RSA}} {{Rut|Lions}} || 4 || 3 || 0 || 1 || 75.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|ENG}} [[London Irish]] || 2 || 1 || 0 || 1 || 50.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|ITA}} [[Amatori Rugby Milano|Milan]] || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 100.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|FRA}} [[US Montauban|Montauban]] || 2 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 100.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|WAL}} [[Neath RFC|Neath]] || 5 || 3 || 1 || 1 || 60.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|WAL}} [[Newport RFC|Newport]] || 3 || 3 || 0 || 0 || 100.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|ENG}} [[Northampton Saints]] || 11 || 6 || 0 || 5 || {{#expr:6/11*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|WAL}} [[Ospreys (rugby union)|Ospreys]] || 50 || 32 || 1 || 17 || {{#expr:32/50*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|FRA}} [[USA Perpignan|Perpignan]] || 9 || 7 || 0 || 2 || 71.43%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|ITA}} [[Petrarca Rugby|Petrarca]] || 2 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 100.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|WAL}} [[Pontypridd RFC|Pontypridd]] || 2 || 1 || 0 || 1 || 50.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|FRA}} [[Racing 92]] || 9 || 4 || 1 || 4 || 44.44%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|ENG}} [[Sale Sharks]] || 6 || 5 || 0 || 1 || 83.33%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|ENG}} [[Saracens F.C.|Saracens]] || 12 || 7 || 0 || 5 || {{#expr:7/12*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|WAL}} [[Scarlets]] || 47 || 32 || 2 || 13 || {{#expr:32/47*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|RSA}} {{Rut|Sharks}} || 6 || 2 || 1 || 3 || {{#expr:2/6*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|RSA}} [[Southern Kings]] || 4 || 4 || 0 || 0 || 100.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|FRA}} [[Stade Français]] || 7 || 5 || 0 || 2 || {{#expr:5/7*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|FRA}} [[Stade Rochelais]] || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0 || {{#expr:1/1*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|RSA}} {{Rut|Stormers}} || 5 || 4 || 0 || 1 || 80.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|WAL}} [[Swansea RFC|Swansea]] || 2 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 100.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|FRA}} [[RC Toulon|Toulon]] || 5 || 3 || 0 || 2 || 60.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|FRA}} [[Stade Toulousain|Toulouse]] || 10 || 4 || 0 || 6 || 40.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} [[Ulster Rugby|Ulster]] || [[History of rugby union matches between Munster and Ulster|48]] || 25 || 2 || 21 || {{#expr:25/48*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|ITA}} [[Viadana Rugby|Viadana]] || 2 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 100.00%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|ENG}} [[Wasps RFC|Wasps]] || 6 || 4 || 0 || 2 || 66.66%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|ITA}} [[Zebre Parma]] || 21 || 20 || 0 || 1 || {{#expr:20/21*100 round 2}}%
|- class="sortbottom"
! Total || 695 || 458 || 16 || 221 || {{#expr:458/695*100 round 2}}%
|}
''†Matches played as part of the Irish Inter-provincial Rugby Championship, separate from league fixtures, are not included in this table.'' <br>
''Correct as of 19 October 2025''

==Records against Irish Provinces (1946–present)==
{| class = "wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! width=175 | Against
! width=48 | Played
! width=48 |Won
! width=48 |Drawn
! width=48 | Lost
! width=48 |% Won
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Connacht}} [[Connacht Rugby|Connacht]] || [[History of rugby union matches between Munster and Connacht|105]] || 89 || 3 || 13 || {{#expr:89/105*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Leinster}} [[Leinster rugby|Leinster]] || [[History of rugby union matches between Leinster and Munster|115]] || 46 || 5 || 64 || {{#expr:46/115*100 round 2}}%
|-
|style="text-align:left;"| {{flagicon|Ulster}} [[Ulster Rugby|Ulster]] || [[History of rugby union matches between Munster and Ulster|108]] || 43 || 10 || 55 || {{#expr:43/108*100 round 2}}%
|-
|- class="sortbottom"
! Total || 327 || 178 || 18 || 131 || {{#expr:178/327*100 round 2}}%
|-
|}
''Correct as of 19 October 2025.''

==Head coaches (professional era)==
:''Correct as of 19 October 2025''
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center;"
|-
!Coach
!Season(s)
!Games
!Won
!Drew
!Lost
!Win %
!Loss %
!Honours
|-
|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} {{sortname|Jerry|Holland|dab=rugby union}}
|1994/95 – 1996/97
|19
|12
|0
|7
|{{#expr:12/19*100 round 0}}%
|{{#expr:7/19*100 round 0}}%
|style="text-align: left;"|[[IRFU Interprovincial Championship]]: 1994–95, 1996–97
|-
|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|WAL}} {{sortname|John|Bevan|dab=rugby}}
|1997/98
|9
|4
|0
|5
|{{#expr:4/9*100 round 0}}%
|{{#expr:5/9*100 round 0}}%
|
|-
|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} {{sortname|Declan|Kidney}}
|1998/99 – 2002/03
|80
|60
|3
|17
|{{#expr:60/80*100 round 0}}%
|{{#expr:17/80*100 round 0}}%
|style="text-align: left;"|[[IRFU Interprovincial Championship]]: 1998–99, 1999–2000, 2000–01<br>[[2002–03 Celtic League|Celtic League (2002–03)]]
|-
|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|AUS|rugby union}} {{sortname|Alan|Gaffney|Alan Gaffney}}
|2003/04 – 2004/05
|61
|40
|0
|21
|{{#expr:40/61*100 round 0}}%
|{{#expr:21/61*100 round 0}}%
|style="text-align: left;"|[[Celtic Cup (rugby union)|Celtic Cup]] (2005)
|-
|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} {{sortname|Declan|Kidney}}
| 2005/06 – 2007/08
|84
|54
|1
|29
|{{#expr:54/84*100 round 0}}%
|{{#expr:29/84*100 round 0}}%
|style="text-align: left;"|[[2005–06 Heineken Cup|European Cup (2006)]], [[2007–08 Heineken Cup|(2008)]]
|-
|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|AUS}} {{sortname|Tony|McGahan|Tony McGahan}}
|2008/09 – 2011/12
|115
|79
|1
|35
|{{#expr:79/115*100 round 0}}%
|{{#expr:35/115*100 round 0}}%
|style="text-align: left;"|[[2008–09 Magners League|Magners League (2009)]], [[2010–11 Magners League|(2011)]] 
|-
|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|NZL}} {{sortname|Rob|Penney|Rob Penney}}
|2012/13 – 2013/14
|61
|38
|1
|22
|{{#expr:38/61*100 round 0}}%
|{{#expr:22/61*100 round 0}}%
|style="text-align: left;"|[[2013–14 Pro12]] Coach of the Season<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2014/05/11/pro12-awards-for-penney-hanrahan/|title=PRO12 Awards For Penney & Hanrahan|date=11 May 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=9 January 2021}}</ref>
|-
|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} {{sortname|Anthony|Foley|Anthony Foley}}
|2014/15 – 2016/17{{#tag:ref|Anthony Foley died suddenly on 16 October 2016, just 6 games into Munster's regular season. Figures for Rassie Erasmus, who became Munster's director of rugby on 1 July 2016, include those games in which Foley was still head coach.
|group=n |name=Foley}}
|64
|39
|2
|23
|{{#expr:39/64*100 round 0}}%
|{{#expr:23/64*100 round 0}}%
|
|-
|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|RSA|rugby union}} {{sortname|Rassie|Erasmus}}
| 2016/17 – 2017/18
|43
|33
|1
|9
|{{#expr:33/43*100 round 0}}%
|{{#expr:9/43*100 round 0}}%
|style="text-align: left;"|[[2016–17 Pro12]] Coach of the Season<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2017/05/08/erasmus-honoured-at-guinness-pro12-awards/|title=Erasmus Honoured At Guinness PRO12 Awards|date=8 May 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=9 January 2021}}</ref>
|-
|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|RSA|rugby union}} {{sortname|Johann|van Graan}}<ref name="Johann van Graan to join Munster as head coach">{{cite news|url=https://www.rte.ie/sport/rugby/2017/1011/911592-van-graan-appointed-munster-head-coach/|title=Johann van Graan appointed Munster head coach|date=11 October 2017|work=[[RTÉ Sport]]|access-date=12 October 2017}}</ref>
| 2017/18 – 2021/22
|125
|84
|3
|38
|{{#expr:84/125*100 round 0}}%
|{{#expr:38/125*100 round 0}}%
|-
|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|ENG}} {{sortname|Graham|Rowntree}}<ref name="Rowntree promoted to head coach"/><ref>{{cite web |title=Munster Rugby Fires Coach Graham Rowntree After Poor Start |url=https://www.florugby.com/articles/12951337-munster-rugby-fires-coach-graham-rowntree-after-poor-start |website=Flo Rugby |access-date=4 December 2024}}</ref>
| 2022/23 – 2024/25 (midseason)
|55
|32
|3
|20
|{{#expr:32/55*100 round 0}}%
|{{#expr:20/55*100 round 0}}%
|style="text-align: left;"|[[2022–23 United Rugby Championship|URC (2022–23)]]
|-
|style="text-align: left;"|{{flagicon|IRE|rugby union}} {{sortname|Ian|Costello}}<ref>{{cite web |title=No rush to install new Munster head coach with solid temporary support in place |url=https://www.irishexaminer.com/sport/rugby/arid-41529626.html |website=Irish Examiner |access-date=4 December 2024}}</ref>
| 2024/25 (midseason)
|18
|10
|0
|8
|{{#expr:10/18*100 round 0}}%
|{{#expr:8/18*100 round 0}}%
|style="text-align: left;"|
|-
| style="text-align: left;" |{{flagicon|NZL}} [[Clayton McMillan]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=Geary |first=Sean |date=2025-02-26 |title=Clayton McMillan Appointed Munster Rugby Head Coach |url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2025/02/26/clayton-mcmillan-appointed-munster-rugby-head-coach/ |access-date=2025-06-03 |website=Munster Rugby |language=en-GB}}</ref>
|2025/2026–
|4
|4
|0
|0
|{{#expr:4/4*100 round 0}}%
|{{#expr:0/4*100 round 0}}%
| style="text-align: left;" |
|-|align=left|
|colspan="9" style="border:0px"| {{reflist|group=n}}
|}

== Notable players ==
{{Main|Munster Rugby players}}

===British & Irish Lions===
The following Munster players have represented the [[British & Irish Lions]].<ref name="The Ireland Rugby Miscellany 2007"/> '''Bold''' indicates tour captain.

{| class="wikitable collapsible collapsed" style="text-align:center;"
|-
!Year
!Tour
!Series Result
!Players
|-
|[[1888 British Lions tour to New Zealand and Australia|1888]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|New Zealand}} [[New Zealand]]<br>{{flagicon|AUS}} [[Australia]]
|''No tests''
|align=center|——
|-
|[[1891 British Lions tour to South Africa|1891]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|RSA}} [[South Africa]]
|{{win-loss record|w=3|l=0}}
|align=center|——
|-
|[[1896 British Lions tour to South Africa|1896]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|RSA}} South Africa
|{{win-loss record|w=3|l=1}}
|align=center|——
|-
|[[1899 British Lions tour to Australia|1899]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|AUS}} Australia
|{{win-loss record|w=3|l=1}}
|align=center|——
|-
|[[1903 British Lions tour to South Africa|1903]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|RSA}} South Africa
|{{win-loss record|w=0|d=0|l=1}}
|align=center|——
|-
|[[1904 British Lions tour to Australia and New Zealand|1904]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|AUS}} Australia<br>{{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand
|{{win-loss record|w=3|l=0}} <br>{{win-loss record|w=0|l=1}} 
|align=center|——
|-
|[[1908 British Lions tour to New Zealand and Australia|1908]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand<br>{{flagicon|AUS}} Australia
|{{win-loss record|w=0|l=2|d=1}} <br>''No tests''
|align=center|——
|-
|[[1910 British Lions tour to South Africa|1910]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|RSA}}South Africa
|{{win-loss record|w=1|l=2}}
|[[William Joseph Ashby]]<br>[[Oliver Piper]]
|-
|[[1910 British Lions tour to Argentina|1910]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|ARG}} [[Argentina]]
|{{win-loss record|w=1|l=0}}
|align=center|——
|-
|[[1924 British Lions tour to South Africa|1924]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|RSA}} South Africa
|{{win-loss record|w=0|l=3|d=1}}
|[[Michael Bradley (rugby union, born 1897)|Michael Bradley]]<br>[[William Roche (rugby union)|William Roche]]
|-
|[[1927 British Lions tour to Argentina|1927]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|ARG}} Argentina
|{{win-loss record|w=4|l=0}}
|align=center|——
|-
|[[1930 British Lions tour to New Zealand and Australia|1930]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand<br>{{flagicon|AUS}}Australia
|{{win-loss record|w=1|l=3}}<br>{{win-loss record|w=0|l=1}} 
|align=center|——
|-
|[[1936 British Lions tour to Argentina|1936]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|ARG}} Argentina
|{{win-loss record|w=1|l=0}}
|align=center|——
|-
|[[1938 British Lions tour to South Africa|1938]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|RSA}} South Africa
|{{win-loss record|w=1|l=2}}
|align=center|——
|-
|[[1950 British Lions tour to New Zealand and Australia|1950]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand<br>{{flagicon|AUS}} Australia
|{{win-loss record|w=0|l=3|d=1}}<br>{{win-loss record|w=2|l=0}} 
|[[Tom Clifford (rugby union)|Tom Clifford]]<br>[[Mick Lane (rugby union)|Mick Lane]]<br>[[Jim McCarthy (rugby union)|Jim McCarthy]]
|-
|[[1955 British Lions tour to South Africa|1955]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|RSA}} South Africa
|{{win-loss record|w=2|l=2}}
|[[Tom Reid (rugby union)|Tom Reid]]
|-
|[[1959 British Lions tour to Australia and New Zealand|1959]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|AUS}} Australia<br>{{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand
|{{win-loss record|w=2|l=0}}<br>{{win-loss record|w=1|l=3}} 
|[[Mick English (rugby union)|Mick English]]<br>[[Noel Murphy (rugby union, born 1937)|Noel Murphy]]<br>[[Gordon Wood (rugby union)|Gordon Wood]]
|-
|[[1962 British Lions tour to South Africa|1962]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|RSA}} South Africa
|{{win-loss record|w=0|l=3|d=1}}
|[[Tom Kiernan]]
|-
|[[1966 British Lions tour to Australia and New Zealand|1966]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|AUS}} Australia<br>{{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand
|{{win-loss record|w=2|l=0}}<br>{{win-loss record|w=0|l=4}} 
|[[Barry Bresnihan]]<br>Noel Murphy (2)<br>[[Jerry Walsh]]
|-
|[[1968 British Lions tour to South Africa|1968]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|RSA}} South Africa
|{{win-loss record|w=0|l=3|d=1}}
|Barry Bresnihan (2)<br>[[Mick Doyle (rugby union)|Mick Doyle]]<br>Tom Kiernan (2)
|-
|[[1971 British Lions tour to New Zealand|1971]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand
|{{win-loss record|w=2|l=1|d=1}}
|align=center|——
|-
|[[1974 British Lions tour to South Africa|1974]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|RSA}} South Africa
|{{win-loss record|w=3|l=0|d=1}}
|[[Moss Keane]]
|-
|[[1977 British Lions tour to New Zealand|1977]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand
|{{win-loss record|w=1|l=3}}
|Moss Keane (2)
|-
|[[1980 British Lions tour to South Africa|1980]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|RSA}} South Africa
|{{win-loss record|w=1|l=3}}
|[[Colm Tucker]]<br>[[Tony Ward (rugby union)|Tony Ward]]
|-
|[[1983 British Lions tour to New Zealand|1983]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand
|{{win-loss record|w=0|l=4}}
|[[Mike Kiernan]]<br>[[Donal Lenihan]]<br>[[Gerry McLoughlin]]
|-
|[[1989 British Lions tour to Australia|1989]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|AUS}} Australia
|{{win-loss record|w=2|l=1}}
|Donal Lenihan (2)
|-
|[[1993 British Lions tour to New Zealand|1993]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand
|{{win-loss record|w=1|l=2}}
|[[Mick Galwey]]<br>[[Richard Wallace (rugby union)|Richard Wallace]]
|-
|[[1997 British Lions tour to South Africa|1997]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|RSA}} South Africa
|{{win-loss record|w=2|l=1}}
|[[Keith Wood]]
|-
|[[2001 British Lions tour to Australia|2001]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|AUS}} Australia
|{{win-loss record|w=1|l=2}}
|[[Rob Henderson]]<br>[[Ronan O'Gara]]<br>[[David Wallace (rugby union)|David Wallace]]<br>Keith Wood (2)
|-
|[[2005 British & Irish Lions tour to New Zealand|2005]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand
|{{win-loss record|w=0|l=3}}
|[[John Hayes (rugby union)|John Hayes]]<br>[[Donncha O'Callaghan]]<br>[[Paul O'Connell]]<br>Ronan O'Gara (2)
|-
|[[2009 British & Irish Lions tour to South Africa|2009]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|RSA}} South Africa
|{{win-loss record|w=1|l=2}}
|[[Keith Earls]]<br>John Hayes (2)<br>Donncha O'Callaghan (2)<br>'''Paul O'Connell''' (2)<br>Ronan O'Gara (3)<br>David Wallace (2)
|-
|[[2013 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia|2013]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|AUS}} Australia
|{{win-loss record|w=2|l=1}}
|[[Conor Murray]]<br>Paul O'Connell (3)<br>[[Simon Zebo]]
|-
|[[2017 British & Irish Lions tour to New Zealand|2017]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|New Zealand}} New Zealand
|{{win-loss record|w=1|l=1|d=1}}
|Conor Murray (2)<br>[[Peter O'Mahony]]<br>[[CJ Stander]]
|-
|[[2021 British & Irish Lions tour to South Africa|2021]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|RSA}} South Africa
|{{win-loss record|w=1|l=2}}
|[[Tadhg Beirne]]<br>Conor Murray (3)
|-
|[[2025 British & Irish Lions tour to Australia|2025]]
|align=left|{{flagicon|AUS}} Australia
|{{win-loss record|w=|l=}}
|[[Tadhg Beirne]] (2)
|-
|}

===The '200' Club===
The following table shows the players who won at least 200 caps for Munster. All players are Irish, unless otherwise noted.
<br>
''(Correct as of 19 October 2025)''

{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Player
! Caps
! Years
|-
| [[Stephen Archer]]
| 304
| 2009–2025
|-
| [[Donncha O'Callaghan]]
| 268
| 1998–2015
|-
| [[Billy Holland]]
| 247
| 2007–2021
|-
| '''[[John Ryan (rugby union, born 1988)|John Ryan]]'''
| 245
| 2011–
|-
| [[Ronan O'Gara]]
| 240
| 1997–2013
|-
| [[Peter Stringer]]
| 232
| 1998–2013
|-
| [[Marcus Horan]]
| 225
| 1999–2013
|-
| [[Dave Kilcoyne]]
| 220
| 2011–2024
|-
| [[John Hayes (rugby union)|John Hayes]]
| 217
| 1998–2011
|-
| [[Alan Quinlan]]
| 212
| 1996–2011
|-
| [[Mick O'Driscoll]]
| 207
| 1998–2003, 2005–2012
|-
| [[Conor Murray]]
| 206
| 2010–2025
|-
| [[David Wallace (rugby union)|David Wallace]]
| 203
| 1997–2012
|-
| [[Keith Earls]]
| 202
| 2007–2023
|-
| [[Anthony Foley]]
| 201
| 1994–2008
|-
| [[Rory Scannell]]
| 200
| 2014–2025
|-
|}

===End-of-season awards===

{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Season !! Player of the Year !! Young Player of the Year !! Academy Player of the Year !! Hall of Fame
|-
| [[2004–05 Munster Rugby season|2004–05]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2005/08/24/oleary-wins-inaugural-academy-award/|title=O'Leary Wins Inaugural Academy Award|date=24 August 2005|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=26 April 2019}}</ref> || align=center|—— || align=center|—— || align=center|[[Tomás O'Leary]] || align=center|——
|-
| [[2005–06 Munster Rugby season|2005–06]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2006/08/09/ross-noonan-receives-john-mccarthy-award/|title=Ross Noonan Receives John McCarthy Award|date=9 August 2006|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=26 April 2019}}</ref> || align=center|—— || align=center|—— || align=center|[[Ross Noonan]] || align=center|——
|-
| [[2006–07 Munster Rugby season|2006–07]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2007/04/30/hayes-named-player-of-the-year/|title=Hayes Named Player Of The Year|date=30 April 2007|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 April 2019}}</ref> || align=center|[[John Hayes (rugby union)|John Hayes]] || align=center|[[Darragh Hurley]] || align=center|[[Keith Earls]] || align=center|[[Tom Kiernan]]
|-
| [[2007–08 Munster Rugby season|2007–08]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2008/05/11/munster-rugby-awards-3/|title=Munster Rugby Awards|date=11 May 2008|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 April 2019}}</ref> || align=center|[[Ronan O'Gara]] || align=center|[[Denis Hurley (rugby union)|Denis Hurley]] || align=center|[[Billy Holland]] || align=center|[[Paddy Reid]]
|-
| [[2008–09 Munster Rugby season|2008–09]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2009/04/25/2009-munster-rugby-awards/|title=2009 Munster Rugby Awards|date=25 April 2009|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 April 2019}}</ref> || align=center|[[David Wallace (rugby union)|David Wallace]] || align=center|Keith Earls || align=center|[[Tommy O'Donnell]] || align=center|[[Mick English (rugby union)|Mick English]]
|-
| [[2009–10 Munster Rugby season|2009–10]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2010/05/10/odriscoll-named-munster-rugby-player-of-the-year/|title=O'Driscoll Named Munster Rugby Player of the Year|date=10 May 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 April 2019}}</ref> || align=center|[[Mick O'Driscoll]] || align=center|Billy Holland || align=center|[[Scott Deasy]] || align=center|[[Jim McCarthy (rugby union)|Jim McCarthy]]
|-
| [[2010–11 Munster Rugby season|2010–11]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2011/05/06/james-coughlan-scoops-player-of-the-year/|title=James Coughlan Scoops Player Of The Year|date=6 May 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 April 2019}}</ref> || align=center|[[James Coughlan]] || align=center|[[Ian Nagle]] || align=center|[[Conor Murray]] || align=center|[[Tom Nesdale]]
|-
| [[2011–12 Munster Rugby season|2011–12]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2012/05/08/donnacha-ryan-scoops-player-of-the-year/|title=Donnacha Ryan Scoops Player Of The Year|date=8 May 2012|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 April 2019}}</ref> || align=center|[[Donnacha Ryan]] || align=center|[[Peter O'Mahony]] || align=center|[[Dave O'Callaghan]] || align=center|Ray Hennessy
|-
| [[2012–13 Munster Rugby season|2012–13]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2013/05/10/tommy-odonnell-named-munster-player-of-the-year-2/|title=Tommy O'Donnell Named Munster Player Of The Year|date=10 May 2013|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 April 2019|archive-date=15 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170915154445/http://munsterrugby.ie/2013/05/10/tommy-odonnell-named-munster-player-of-the-year-2/|url-status=dead}}</ref> || align=center|Tommy O'Donnell || align=center|[[Simon Zebo]] || align=center|[[James Cronin (rugby union)|James Cronin]] || align=center|Liam Coughlan
|-
| [[2013–14 Munster Rugby season|2013–14]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2014/05/08/murray-is-munster-player-of-the-year/|title=Murray Is Munster Player Of The Year|date=8 May 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 April 2019}}</ref> || align=center|Conor Murray || align=center|[[JJ Hanrahan]] || align=center|[[Shane Buckley]] || align=center|Brian O'Brien
|-
| [[2014–15 Munster Rugby season|2014–15]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2015/04/30/stander-scoops-player-of-the-year-award-2/|title=Stander Scoops Player Of The Year Award|date=30 April 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 April 2019|archive-date=25 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190425212945/https://munsterrugby.ie/2015/04/30/stander-scoops-player-of-the-year-award-2/|url-status=dead}}</ref> || align=center|[[CJ Stander]] || align=center|[[Duncan Casey]] || align=center|[[Jack O'Donoghue]] || align=center|[[Noel Murphy (rugby union, born 1937)|Noel Murphy]]
|-
| [[2015–16 Munster Rugby season|2015–16]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2016/05/13/stander-scoops-award-for-second-successive-year/|title=Stander Scoops Award For Second Successive Year|date=13 May 2016|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 April 2019}}</ref> || align=center|CJ Stander || align=center|[[Rory Scannell]] || align=center|Rory Scannell || align=center|[[Phil O'Callaghan]]
|-
| [[2016–17 Munster Rugby season|2016–17]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/05/04/bleyendaal-is-named-munster-player-of-the-year/|title=Bleyendaal Is Named Munster Player Of The Year|date=4 May 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 April 2019}}</ref> || align=center|[[Tyler Bleyendaal]] || align=center|[[Darren Sweetnam]] || align=center|[[Conor Oliver]] || align=center|[[Barry McGann]]
|-
| [[2017–18 Munster Rugby season|2017–18]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2018/04/25/earls-named-munster-player-of-the-year/|title=Earls Named Munster Player Of The Year|date=25 April 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 April 2019}}</ref> || align=center|Keith Earls || align=center|[[Sammy Arnold]] || align=center|[[Fineen Wycherley]] || align=center|[[Anthony Foley]]
|-
| [[2018–19 Munster Rugby season|2018–19]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2019/04/23/omahony-named-munster-player-of-the-year/|title=O'Mahony Named Munster Player Of The Year|date=23 April 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 April 2019}}</ref> || align=center|Peter O'Mahony || align=center|[[Dan Goggin (rugby union)|Dan Goggin]] || align=center|[[Craig Casey]] || align=center|[[Donal Lenihan]]
|-
| [[2019–20 Munster Rugby season|2019–20]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2020/11/02/munster-rugby-awards-2020/|title=Munster Rugby Awards 2020|date=2 November 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=2 November 2020}}</ref> || align=center|CJ Stander || align=center|[[Shane Daly]] || align=center|[[Jack O'Sullivan (rugby union)|Jack O'Sullivan]] || align=center| [[Garrett Fitzgerald (rugby union)|Garrett Fitzgerald]]
|-
| [[2020–21 Munster Rugby season|2020–21]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2021/06/17/munster-rugby-awards-2021/|title=Munster Rugby Awards 2021|date=17 June 2021|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=17 June 2021}}</ref> || align=center|[[Gavin Coombes]] || align=center|Craig Casey || align=center|[[Ben Healy (rugby union)|Ben Healy]] || align=center|——
|-
| [[2021–22 Munster Rugby season|2021–22]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2022/06/14/2022-munster-rugby-awards/|title=2022 Munster Rugby Awards|date=14 June 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 June 2022}}</ref> || align=center|Jack O'Donoghue || align=center|—— || align=center|[[Alex Kendellen]] || align=center|——
|-
|[[2022–23 Munster Rugby season|2022-23]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=McMahon |first=Sean |date=2023-11-16 |title=2023 Munster Rugby Awards |url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2023/11/16/2023-munster-rugby-awards/ |access-date=2023-12-06 |website=Munster Rugby |language=en-GB}}</ref> || align=center|[[Jean Kleyn]] || align=center|—— || align=center|[[Ruadhán Quinn]]
|
|-
|[[2023–24 Munster Rugby season|2023-24]] || align=center|[[Calvin Nash]] || align=center|—— || align=center|[[Brian Gleeson (rugby union)|Brian Gleeson]]
|
|}

===Overseas players===
The following is a list of non-Irish qualified Munster players. Note: flags indicate national union as has been defined under World Rugby eligibility rules. Players may hold more than one non-WR nationality.

{| class="wikitable collapsible collapsed" style="text-align:center;"
|-
! Union
! Player
! Season(s)
|-
|rowspan="2"| {{flagicon|ARG}} Argentina
| [[Lucas González Amorosino]]
| 2015–2016
|-
| [[Eusebio Guiñazú]]
| 2014–2015
|-
| rowspan="10"| {{flagicon|AUS}} Australia
| [[Tom Bowman (rugby union)|Tim Bowman]]
| 2004–2005
|-
| [[Will Chambers]]
| 2011–2012
|-
| [[Mark Chisholm]]
| 2015–2017
|-
| [[Jed Holloway]]
| 2019
|-
| [[Simon Kerr]]
| 2002–2004
|-
| [[John Langford (rugby union)|John Langford]]
| 1999–2001
|-
| [[David Pusey]]
| 2004–2005
|-
| [[Andrew Smith (rugby union, born 1985)|Andrew Smith]]
| 2014–2015
|-
| [[Paul Warwick (rugby union)|Paul Warwick]]
| 2007–2011
|-
| [[Jim Williams (rugby union)|Jim Williams]]
| 2001–2005
|-
| rowspan="3"| {{flagicon|ENG}} England
| [[Gary Connolly]]
| 2005–2006
|-
| [[Andy Long (rugby union)|Andy Long]]
| 2003–2004
|-
| [[Dominic Malone]]
| 2002–2003
|-
| rowspan="1"| {{flagicon|FRA}} France
| [[Julien Brugnaut]]
| 2009–2010
|-
| rowspan="1"| {{flagicon|GER}} Germany
| [[Justin Melck]]
| 2008
|-
| rowspan="1"| {{flagicon|ITA}} Italy
| [[Federico Pucciariello]]
| 2005–2009
|-
| rowspan="16"| {{flagicon|NZL}} New Zealand
| [[Te Aihe Toma]]
| 2016–2017
|-
| [[Peter Borlase]]
| 2010–2012
|-
| [[Christian Cullen]]
| 2003–2007
|-
| [[Rhys Ellison]]
| 1997–1999
|-
| [[Doug Howlett]]
| 2008–2013
|-
| [[Casey Laulala]]
| 2012–2014
|-
| [[Quentin MacDonald]]
| 2014
|-
| [[Lifeimi Mafi]]
| 2006–2012
|-
| [[Alby Mathewson]]
| 2018–2019
|-
| [[Toby Morland]]
| 2009
|-
| [[Alex Nankivell]]
| 2023–
|-
| [[Francis Saili]]
| 2015–2017
|-
| [[Rua Tipoki]]
| 2007–2009
|-
| [[Savenaca Tokula]]
| 2012
|-
| [[Sam Tuitupou]]
| 2010–2011
|-
| [[Nick Williams (rugby union)|Nick Williams]]
| 2008–2010
|-
| rowspan="1"| {{flagicon|POR}} Portugal
| [[Diogo Mateus]]
| 2006–2007
|-
| rowspan="2"| {{flagicon|SCO}} Scotland
| [[Gordon McIlwham]]
| 2003–2005
|-
| [[Kiran McDonald]]
| 2022–2023
|-
| rowspan="16"| {{flagicon|RSA}} South Africa
| [[Arno Botha]]
| 2018–2020
|-
| [[BJ Botha]]
| 2011–2016
|-
| [[Damian de Allende]]
| 2020–2022
|-
| [[Jean de Villiers]]
| 2009–2010
|-
| [[Wian du Preez]]
| 2009–2013
|-
| [[Thomas du Toit]]
| 2016–2017
|-
| [[Gerbrandt Grobler]]
| 2017–2018
|-
| [[Trevor Halstead]]
| 2005–2007
|-
| [[Patrick Howard (rugby union)|Pat Howard]]
| 2014–2015
|-
| [[Jason Jenkins]]
| 2021–2022
|-
| [[Jean Kleyn]]<ref group=note>Kleyn joined Munster in 2016 and qualified for Ireland based on residency laws, going on to earn five international caps for Ireland in 2019, before reverting his international affiliation back to South Africa in June 2023 following changes to World Rugby's eligibility laws in 2021.</ref>
| 2023–
|-
| [[Shaun Payne]]
| 2003–2008
|-
| [[Anton Pitout]]
| 2005–2006
|-
| [[RG Snyman]]
| 2020–
|-
| [[Jaco Taute]]
| 2016–2019
|-
| [[Gerhard van den Heever]]
| 2013–2016
|-
| rowspan="1"| {{flagicon|TON}} Tonga
| [[Malakai Fekitoa]]
| 2022–2023
|-
| rowspan="1"| {{flagicon|URU}} Uruguay
| [[Mario Sagario]]
| 2015–2016
|-
| rowspan="2"| {{flagicon|WAL}} Wales
| [[Jason Jones-Hughes]]
| 2003–2004
|-
| [[Chris Wyatt (rugby union)|Chris Wyatt]]
| 2006–2007
|-
|}

==Individual records==
''(Correct as of 16 June 2025)''<ref>{{cite web |title=PLAYER STATISTICS |url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/teams/player-stats/ |website=Munster Rugby |access-date=9 April 2024}}</ref>
Bold indicates highest overall record. All players are Irish unless otherwise indicated.

===All-Time===
''(Correct as of 16 June 2025)''
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Category
! Player
! Totals
! Years
|-
| Appearances
| [[Stephen Archer]]
| 304
| 2009–2025
|-
| Points
| [[Ronan O'Gara]]
| 2,625
| 1997–2013
|-
| Tries
| [[Simon Zebo]]
| 73
| 2010–2018, 2021–2024
|-
|}

===European Rugby Champions Cup===
''(Correct as of 1 June 2024)''
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Category
! Player
! Totals
! Years
|-
| Appearances
| [[Ronan O'Gara]]
| 110
| 1997–2013
|-
| Points
| [[Ronan O'Gara]]
| 1,365
| 1997–2013
|-
| Tries
| [[Simon Zebo]]
| 26
| 2011–2018, 2021–2024
|-
|}

===United Rugby Championship===
''(Correct as of 14 June 2025)''<ref>{{cite web |title=Munster Guinness PRO12 Player Records |url=http://site-celtic.soticcloud.net/teams/munster/records.php |website=Pro12 |access-date=15 June 2025}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Category
! Player
! Totals
! Years
|-
| Appearances
| [[Stephen Archer]]
| 237
| 2009–2025
|-
| Points
| [[Ronan O'Gara]]
| 942
| 2011–2019
|-
| Tries
| [[Simon Zebo]]
| 46
| 2010–2018, 2021–2024
|-
|}

==ERC Elite Team Awards==
The ERC issued awards to teams that had played at least 50 matches in European competitions.<br><small>Correct as of 12 October 2025<ref>{{cite web |title=Most Matches |url=https://tournamentguides.epcrugby.com/statistics/records/most-matches/ |website=EPRC |access-date=27 April 2024}}</ref></small>

{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Team !! Matches played
|-
| Munster Rugby || align=center|206
|}

==ERC Elite Player Awards==
''All players are Irish unless otherwise noted.''

===ERC 15 European Player Award===
This award recognised the best European player in the Heineken Cup from 1995 to 2010.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.irishrugby.ie/2010/05/16/erc-player-honour-for-ogara/|title=ERC Player Honour For O'Gara|date=16 May 2010|work=Irish Rugby|access-date=26 February 2017}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Player !! Position !! Years
|-
| [[Ronan O'Gara]] || [[Rugby union positions#Fly-half|Fly-half]] || 1997–2013
|}

===European Dream Team===
In 2010, the following Munster players were selected in the [[European Rugby Cup|ERC]] European Dream Team, an all–time dream team of [[European Rugby Champions Cup|Heineken Cup]] players.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2010/05/16/erc-honour-ogara-wallace-foley/|title=ERC Honour O'Gara, Wallace & Foley|date=16 May 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=14 January 2017}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Player !! Position !! Years
|-
| [[Anthony Foley]] || [[Rugby union positions#Number Eight|Number 8]] || 1995–2008
|-
| [[Ronan O'Gara]] || [[Rugby union positions#Fly-half|Fly-half]] || 1997–2013
|-
| [[David Wallace (rugby union)|David Wallace]] || [[Rugby union positions#Flanker|Flanker]] || 1997–2012
|}

===Scoring===
The ERC issued awards to players who had scored at least 500 and 1,000 points in European competitions.

{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Players !! Points
|-
| [[Ronan O'Gara]] || 1,365
|}

==United Rugby Championship Team of the Year==

{| class="wikitable collapsible collapsed"
|-
! Competition !! Irish players !! Overseas players
|-
| [[2006–07 Celtic League|2006–07]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2007/05/11/no-munster-player-considered-worthy-of-magners-dream-team/|title=No Munster Player Considered Worthy of Magners Dream Team|date=11 May 2007|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 May 2019}}</ref> || align=center|—— || align=center|——
|-
| [[2007–08 Celtic League|2007–08]]<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/sport/rugby/rabo-direct-pro-12/2008/0525/232316-magnersleague/|title=Leinster dominate Magners dream team|date=27 May 2008|work=[[RTÉ Sport]]|access-date=6 May 2014}}</ref> || align=center|—— || {{flagicon|NZL|rugby union}} [[Lifeimi Mafi]]
|-
| [[2008–09 Celtic League|2008–09]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2009/05/21/four-munster-players-on-magners-dream-team/|title=Four Munster Players On Magners Dream Team|date=21 May 2009|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=6 May 2014}}</ref> || [[Ronan O'Gara]], <br> [[Jerry Flannery]], <br> [[Paul O'Connell]] || {{flagicon|NZL|rugby union}} Lifeimi Mafi (2)
|-
| [[2009–10 Celtic League|2009–10]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2010/05/27/magners-dream-team/|title=Magners Dream Team|date=27 May 2010|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=6 May 2014}}</ref> || [[Tomás O'Leary]] || align=center|——
|-
| [[2010–11 Celtic League|2010–11]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2011/05/02/ogara-the-sole-inclusion/|title=O'Gara The Sole Inclusion|date=2 May 2011|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=6 May 2014}}</ref> || Ronan O'Gara (2) || align=center|——
|-
| [[2011–12 Pro12|2011–12]]<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.rte.ie/sport/rugby/2012/0503/319567-five-provincial-players-in-rabo-pro12-dream-team/|title=Five provincial players in Rabo Pro12 Dream Team|date=3 May 2012|work=[[RTÉ Sport]]|access-date=6 May 2014}}</ref> || align=center|—— || {{flagicon|RSA|rugby union}} [[BJ Botha]]
|-
| [[2012–13 Pro12|2012–13]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.rte.ie/sport/rugby/2013/0506/390591-williams-named-pro12-player-of-the-year/|title=Nick Williams named PRO12 Player of the Year|date=6 May 2013|work=[[RTÉ Sport]]|access-date=24 May 2019}}</ref> || align=center|—— || align=center|——
|-
| [[2013–14 Pro12|2013–14]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2014/05/05/kilcoyne-and-laulala-named-in-dream-team/|title=Kilcoyne And Laulala Named In Dream Team|date=5 May 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=30 August 2022}}</ref> || [[Dave Kilcoyne]] || {{flagicon|NZL|rugby union}} [[Casey Laulala]]
|-
| [[2014–15 Pro12|2014–15]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2015/05/11/stander-odonnell-make-pro12-dream-team-2/|title=Stander & O'Donnell Make PRO12 Dream Team|date=11 May 2015|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=11 May 2015|archive-date=16 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170916041730/http://munsterrugby.ie/2015/05/11/stander-odonnell-make-pro12-dream-team-2/|url-status=dead}}</ref> || [[Tommy O'Donnell]] || {{flagicon|RSA|rugby union}} [[CJ Stander]]
|-
| [[2015–16 Pro12|2015–16]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.the42.ie/guinness-pro12-awards-2016-2758838-May2016/|title=Brilliant Bundee Aki scoops Guinness Pro12 Player of the Season award|date=8 May 2016|work=[[TheJournal.ie|The42]]|access-date=9 May 2016}}</ref> || CJ Stander (2){{#tag:ref|CJ Stander became Irish-qualified on 1 November 2015 and represented the Irish national rugby union team.
|group=n |name=Stander}} || align=center|——
|-|align=left|
|-
| [[2016–17 Pro12|2016–17]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2017/05/05/6-munster-players-included-in-pro12-dream-team/|title=6 Munster Players Included In PRO12 Dream Team|date=5 May 2017|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=5 May 2017}}</ref> || [[Rory Scannell]], <br> [[Billy Holland]], <br> Dave Kilcoyne (2), <br> [[John Ryan (rugby union, born 1988)|John Ryan]] || {{flagicon|RSA|rugby union}} [[Jaco Taute]], <br> {{flagicon|NZL|rugby union}} [[Tyler Bleyendaal]]
|-
| [[2017–18 Pro14|2017–18]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2018/08/20/beirne-wins-pro14-players-player-of-the-season-award/|title=Beirne Wins PRO14 Players' Player Of The Season Award|date=20 August 2018|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=21 August 2018}}</ref> ||align=center|—— || align=center|——
|-
| [[2018–19 Pro14|2018–19]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2019/05/24/beirne-omahony-in-guinness-pro14-dream-team/|title=Beirne & O'Mahony In Guinness PRO14 Dream Team|date=24 May 2019|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=24 May 2019}}</ref> || [[Tadhg Beirne]] (2),{{#tag:ref|Tadhg Beirne was named in the 2017–18 dream team whilst a Scarlets player.
|group=n |name=Beirne}} <br> [[Peter O'Mahony]] || align=center|——
|-
| [[2019–20 Pro14|2019–20]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.pro14.rugby/latest/award/guinness-pro14-awards-2020|title=Guinness PRO14 Awards 2020|date=9 September 2020|work=Pro14|access-date=9 September 2020}}</ref> ||align=center|—— || align=center|——
|-
| [[2020–21 Pro14|2020–21]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2021/04/01/guinness-pro14-dream-team-de-allende-holland-and-obyrne-included/|title=Guinness PRO14 Dream Team {{!}} de Allende, Holland and O'Byrne Included|date=1 April 2021|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=1 April 2021}}</ref> || Billy Holland (2), <br> [[Kevin O'Byrne]] || {{flagicon|RSA}} [[Damian de Allende]]
|-
| [[2021–22 United Rugby Championship|2021–22]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2022/06/07/craig-casey-jean-kleyn-on-urc-dream-team/|title=Craig Casey & Jean Kleyn On URC Dream Team|date=7 June 2022|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=7 June 2022}}</ref> || [[Craig Casey]] <br> [[Jean Kleyn]] || align=center|——
|-
| [[2022–23 United Rugby Championship|2022–23]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2023/05/11/gavin-coombes-named-on-urc-elite-xv/#post|title=Gavin Coombes Named On URC Elite XV|date=11 May 2023|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=13 May 2023}}</ref> || [[Gavin Coombes]] || align=center|——
|-
| [[2023–24 United Rugby Championship|2023–24]]<ref>{{cite web |title=URC AWARDS: Elixirr Innovation Award & Elite XV winners announced |url=https://www.unitedrugby.com/latest/news/elixirr-innovation-award-elite-xv |website=United Rugby |access-date=17 June 2025}}</ref>|| [[Tadhg Beirne]] (3), [[Jack Crowley]] || {{flagicon|NZL|rugby union}} [[Alex Nankivell]]
|-
| [[2024–25 United Rugby Championship|2024–25]]<ref>{{cite web |title=Four Irish named in URC's Elite XV |url=https://www.rte.ie/sport/united-rugby-championship/2025/0604/1516656-four-irish-named-in-urcs-elite-xv/ |website=RTE |access-date=17 June 2025}}</ref>|| [[Tadhg Beirne]] (4), [[Craig Casey]] (2), [[Tom Farrell (rugby union)|Tom Farrell]] ||align=center|——
|-
|}
{{reflist|group=n}}

===Golden Boot===
The United Rugby Championship Golden Boot is awarded to the kicker who has successfully converted the highest percentage of place kicks during the 18-week regular URC season. The prize has been awarded annually since 2012.

{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Competition !! Player !! Success rate
|-
| [[2013–14 Pro12|2013–14]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://munsterrugby.ie/2014/05/11/pro12-awards-for-penney-hanrahan-2/|title=PRO12 Awards For Penney & Hanrahan|date=11 May 2014|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=26 February 2017|archive-date=6 January 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190106221435/https://munsterrugby.ie/2014/05/11/pro12-awards-for-penney-hanrahan-2/|url-status=dead}}</ref> || [[JJ Hanrahan]] || 88.71%
|-
| [[2019–20 Pro14|2019–20]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.munsterrugby.ie/2020/09/02/jj-hanrahan-wins-guinness-pro14-golden-boot-for-2nd-time/|title=JJ Hanrahan Wins Guinness PRO14 Golden Boot For 2nd Time|date=2 September 2020|work=Munster Rugby|access-date=3 September 2020}}</ref> || JJ Hanrahan || 90.91%
|-
|}

===Playmaker of the Year===
The Playmaker award was first introduced in 2025 and is awarded to the player with the most points based upon their total number of try assists (3 points), offloads (2 points) and defenders beaten (1 point).<ref name="Playmaker">{{cite web |title=Munster’s Farrell Wins Inaugural URC Playermaker Award |url=https://www.irishrugby.ie/2025/06/03/munsters-farrell-wins-inaugural-urc-playermaker-award/ |website=Irish Rugby |access-date=16 July 2025}}</ref>

{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Competition !! Player !! Points
|-
| [[2024–25 United Rugby Championship|2024–25]]<ref name="Playmaker"/><ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=URC AWARDS: Elite XV and Next-Gen Player of the Season Winner Announced |url=https://www.unitedrugby.com/latest/news/urc-awards-elite-xv-and-next-gen-player-of-the-season-winner-announced |access-date=2025-06-06 |website=United Rugby Championship}}</ref> || [[Tom Farrell (rugby union)|Tom Farrell]] || 158 points comes from five try assists (15 points), 41 offloads (82 points), and 61 defenders beaten (61 points)
|-
|}

==See also==
*{{cat|Munster Rugby players}}
*[[History of rugby union matches between Leinster and Munster]]
*[[History of rugby union matches between Munster and Connacht]]
*[[History of rugby union matches between Munster and Ulster]]

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

==Notes==
{{reflist|group=note}}

==Further reading==
* English, A, (2005) ''Stand Up and Fight: When Munster Beat the All Blacks'', Random House, London
* English, A, (2006) ''Munster: Our Road to Glory'', Penguin Ireland, Dublin
* Murphy, E, (2006) ''Munster Rugby: The Secret of Their Success'', Maverick House Publishers, Dublin
* Cronin, C, (2006) ''Beyond Our Wildest Dreams: Munster's Heineken Cup Odyssey'', Tuatha Mumhan Books
* Irish Examiner, (2008) ''Munster: Champions of Europe'', Gill & Macmillan Ltd, Dublin
* Coughlan, B, (2009) ''Rags to Riches: The Story of Munster Rugby'', The Collins Press, Cork
* Mulqueen, C & O'Dowd, B, (2015) ''The Story of Thomond Park: Where Miracles Happen'', The Collins Press

==External links==
{{Commons category}}
{{wikinews|Munster Rugby}}
*{{Official website|https://www.munsterrugby.ie/}}
*[https://www.mrsc.ie/ Official Munster Rugby Supporters Club site]
*[https://www.munsterfans.com Munster Fans Forum]
*[https://www.irishrugby.ie/provinces/munster/#overview IRFU Munster site]
*[https://www.unitedrugby.com/clubs/munster URC - Munster site]
*[https://www.epcrugby.com/club/munster-rugby/#overview EPCR – Munster site]

{{Munster Rugby}}
{{Munster Rugby squad}}
{{Munster Rugby captains}}
{{United Rugby Championship}}
{{Rugby union in Ireland}}
{{European Rugby Champions Cup}}
{{European Rugby Champions Cup winners}}
{{British and Irish Cup}}
{{Sport in Limerick City}}
{{Sport in Cork City}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Munster Rugby| ]]
[[Category:Rugby clubs established in 1879]]
[[Category:Rugby union in Munster| ]]
[[Category:Rugby union governing bodies in Ireland]]
[[Category:Heineken Cup champions]]
[[Category:Sports governing bodies in Munster|Rugby]]
[[Category:United Rugby Championship teams]]