Stephen Larkham will leave Munster at the end of the season after turning down the offer of a contract extension.
Having plied his trade as Munster's attack coach for the last two years, Larkham has now turned down an extension, citing the more appealing logistics to family life back in Australia - and an apparent coaching offer which he says has presented itself.
Larkham outlined how difficult a decision it was to leave Munster but pointed to the personal reasons that swayed him in making his mind up.
He said: “I only recently spoke about my desire to remain with Munster and continue working with my fellow coaches and playing group.
“That hopefully gives some indication as to how difficult a decision this has been for me. The staff, players, fans, and facilities are world class here and I am grateful to have had this opportunity.
"My family made a number of sacrifices in joining me on this move to Ireland and my girls’ adjustment over here, particularly with covid, has been difficult. I have to put them first now, and with a coaching opportunity closer to home this is the right thing for my family at this time.
“For now, my focus is very much with Munster Rugby and with a long season ahead I will savour every moment of working within this great environment as we continue to build in the right direction.”
