Munster Appoint Jared Payne as Attack Coach After Roger Randle Deal Collapsed Over 1997 Allegation
The 40-year-old former Ireland international replaces a prior appointment that was withdrawn. He will share attack duties with Mossy Lawler, who extended his contract to 2028.
rnz.co.nzMunster appointed former Ireland international Jared Payne as the province's new attack coach on a two-year deal. The 40-year-old New Zealand-born player earned 20 Ireland caps between 2014 and 2017 and previously coached Clermont and Scarlets. Payne spent four years as Ulster defence coach between 2018 and 2022 after a seven-year playing stint in Belfast.
He recently left his role as Scarlets defence coach after a three-year spell that ended last month. Payne will combine attack and backline coaching responsibilities with Mossy Lawler, who has extended his Munster deal until 2028. Munster head coach Clayton McMillan said the attack portfolio is vast and that he has always viewed it as a two-person job.
"Munster is a club with a proud history, strong values and a special connection with its supporters and community. As a family, we're excited to become part of that," Payne said. " McMillan said Payne has developed an excellent reputation for empowering players and assisting them to fulfil their potential.
"I'm equally delighted that Mossy has extended his contract," McMillan added. Payne's arrival follows Jimmy Duffy's appointment as forwards coach after leaving Ulster. Munster initially appointed Roger Randle as attack coach, but that move was called off after opposition following the resurfacing of a 1997 rape allegation.
Munster's 2025-26 season ended with a United Rugby Championship quarter-final loss to the Bulls on 30 May. Payne said he was incredibly grateful for the opportunity to join the province.
