Munster Rugby have confirmed the appointment of former Ireland international Jared Payne as Assistant Coach on a two-year deal.

The province has also announced that Mossy Lawler has signed a contract extension that will keep him at the club until 2028.

Payne and Lawler will share responsibility for Munster’s attack and backline coaching duties as part of a revamped coaching structure ahead of the new season.

The appointment completes Munster’s coaching team following last week’s announcement of Jimmy Duffy as Forwards Coach.

Payne brings a wealth of experience to the role. The former Ireland international earned 20 caps for his country and was also selected for the British & Irish Lions tour in 2017. His playing career included spells with the Chiefs, Crusaders, and Blues in New Zealand before moving to Ireland with Ulster Rugby in 2011.

Following his retirement in 2018 due to injury, Payne moved straight into coaching, serving as Defence Coach with Ulster before spending a season with French side ASM Clermont Auvergne. Most recently, he spent three years with the Welsh region Scarlets, coaching both attack and defence.

Speaking after his appointment, Payne said he was grateful for the opportunity to join a club with such a proud history and strong connection to its supporters.

Munster Head Coach Clayton McMillan welcomed the appointment, highlighting Payne’s extensive playing and coaching experience across Ireland, New Zealand, France, and Wales.

McMillan also praised Lawler’s contract extension, saying the attack programme requires two coaches capable of bringing innovation and detail to their respective areas.

Munster General Manager Ian Costello described Payne as a highly respected coach who will work closely with Lawler and help complete an ambitious coaching team for the season ahead.

The appointments mark another significant step in Munster’s preparations for the new campaign as the province looks to build on recent progress and challenge for silverware on both domestic and European fronts.

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