Munster have announced a classy gesture they will make to mark the 10th anniversary of Anthony Foley’s death in their match against Racing 92 on Saturday.
Friday marked 10 years since the tragic passing of Foley in Paris back in 2016, and coincidentally, to mark the anniversary, Munster will face the same side they were supposed to face that day, Racing 92.
The match is set to take place in front of over 25,000 people at Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork, and Munster have already announced one classy gesture they’ll make in tribute to the legendary Foley.
Ahead of their team announcement, Munster revealed that they will retire the number 8 jersey, which Foley wore throughout his career, for the night, with Brian Gleeson wearing number 24 instead.
Head Coach Clayton McMillan has made six changes from the side that drew with Ulster, with four youngsters making their European debuts.
Charlie O’Shea and Sean Edogbo both start for their first game in Europe, while Max Clein and Ben O’Donovan are also slated to make their European debuts off the bench. John Hodnett and Gleeson also come in for Alex Kendellen and Gavin Coombes.
Munster have also released a statement after some backlash over this match being played in Cork instead of Foley’s hometown of Limerick. They revealed that the decision to play a match in Cork came in March, and with how the draw worked out and the dates, it just so happened to fall on Foley’s anniversary.
‘This was not a decision to move an Anthony Foley anniversary fixture away from Thomond Park. The venue decision had been made before the opposition, and the fixture date were known,’ the province said.
‘Once those details were confirmed, our focus became ensuring that Anthony would be commemorated appropriately and respectfully. Those plans have been developed with the knowledge and support of the Foley family and in conjunction with Racing 92, Shannon RFC, Ballina-Killaloe RFC and supporters connected to both clubs.
‘We recognise that, with the benefit of hindsight and the emotions understandably attached to this anniversary, many people will hold a different view on where this fixture should have been played. We respect those views.
‘What unites everyone is their admiration, affection and gratitude for Anthony Foley and his extraordinary contribution to Munster Rugby. Our focus now is on ensuring that this weekend provides a fitting tribute to one of the greatest figures in our history and that he is remembered with the dignity, respect and love that he deserves.’
