McGahan takes over at Munster

In a widely expected move, Tony McGahan has been confirmed as Munster's new head coach and will take over the position vacated by Declan Kidney.

The 35-year-old Australian will take up his new role with the European champions on July 1st when he returns from holiday in Sydney after the appointment was ratified by the IRFU today.

As the club's defence and backs coach since March 2006, the Australian has been a key part of the set-up, headed by Kidney, which took two Heineken Cup titles to Thomond Park.

McGahan previously served time as a defensive/backs coach with Queensland As and the Australian under-19s before a year as head coach with the IBM club in Japan as well as a stint with the Brisbane Broncos in rugby league.

"I am delighted to be chosen as the next Munster coach," said McGahan from Sydney. "It is a privilege and a great honour to be asked to lead one of the top clubs and biggest brand names in world rugby

"Having been involved with Munster for the past three seasons I fully realise what the expectations of all Munster supporters are. With a solid group of senior players at my disposal plus an exciting batch of young players coming through, a talented management group and strong administration, I hope to continue and fulfil those expectations in the short and long term.

"I am looking forward to the challenges ahead, both in Magners League and Heineken Cup competitions. I have enjoyed my time working under Declan Kidney and would like to wish him all the very best in his role with the national side."

Munster chief executive Garrett Fitzgerald added: "I am very pleased that the process to fill the position has been finalised and done so in such an expedient manner.

"Tony McGahan has been involved with us for the past number of years, a  period that saw him play an  integral part in our Heineken Cup success and consistency in the Magners League.  In that time he has displayed all the qualities that we believe are required to keep Munster to the forefront and we wish him well in the challenging times that lie ahead."

Fitzgerald said the forwards coach post vacated by Jim Williams, who has returned to Australia, will not be filled until McGahan takes up his new role at the start of July.