Uncertainty over coaching is slaming brakes on progress

RATHER like their Champions Cup opener, which Munster conceivably could have won as they strode purposefully into the final quarter with a narrow advantage before almost conspiring to lose it in the final moments, the ongoing uncertainty surrounding their coaching situation is all a bit messy.

Manfully, as ever, this squad will plough on as they have done before amidst altogether more feral upset.

Nevertheless, with nobody quite knowing just when their current coach will leave, not to mention when their next one will arrive, it would seem better for all concerned if the province can get their ducks in a row sooner rather than later.

Red tape, in the form of newcomer Johann van Graan’s work permit, isn’t helping matters so, as it stands, Rassie Erasmus could still remain in Ireland until December 31, as his contract allows or, as his new South African employers might desire, he could be gone before the first Halloween bonfire is lit.

After this fitful display, victory is now a must next week against a resurgent Racing 92, but Erasmus is confident that even Van Graan, his untried and untested successor, might be good enough to dig Munster out of a hole should the unimaginable happen in Thomond Park next weekend.

“We don’t necessarily have to win next week,” Erasmus said. “We have to try and win next week. We are trying as hard as we can.

“If he comes in here after a draw and a loss he is the type of guy to sort it out. He will get stuck in there and find a way. He is a really good coach.”