Munster name well-travelled former lock as Codling replacement

Munster Rugby have confirmed that Jimmy Duffy will join the province as forwards coach ahead of the 2026/27 season on a two-year deal.

The former Connacht and Ireland lock, who was forced to retire from playing at the age of 21 due to medical reasons, has replaced Alex Codling in the role.

Duffy arrives at Munster with a wealth of coaching experience behind him. He made his way up through the ranks of the Connacht setup, and was part of the coaching team that led the Galway-based team to the Pro 12 title.

Duffy spent six years on the Connacht coaching team all told, before opting to move on for a new challenge in 2021.

He was involved with the Tonga national team on their northern hemisphere tour in 2021 and joined the Ireland U20s coaching team in 2022, helping the side to a Grand Slam title.

Duffy then moved to Australia in 2022 and joined Super Rugby outfit Western Force as forwards coach.

After two successful years in Perth, he returned to Ireland and has spent the past two seasons at Ulster Rugby, playing an important role in developing the province’s forward talent.

Seán Cronin, who coached the senior team’s scrum throughout the 2025/26 season, will return to this role as provincial talent coach on a full-time basis.

In addition, Cronin will take on the additional remit of pathway scrum coach..

Head Coach Clayton McMillan said: “Jimmy is an excellent addition to our coaching team. He has proven himself as a quality coach with teams across the URC, Super Rugby and the Ireland U20s.

“He comes with a glowing reputation for developing players and driving high standards and accountability. When we spoke, I was impressed with Jimmy’s sense of purpose, his attention to detail and work ethic.

“I have no doubt he has the tools to drive us forward and look I forward to working alongside him next season.”