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The rugby world was shocked yesterday when it was announced that Graham Rowntree has departed his role as Munster Rugby head coach with immediate effect.

Rowntree was in his third season as Munster boss, having led them to a URC title in his first season in charge, before guiding them to top spot in the regular campaign last year before defeat to eventual winners Glasgow Warriors in the semi-final.

Munster currently sit 12th in the URC table going into the break after a difficult start to the season but have been incredibly unlucky with injuries, particularly in the front-row department.

So who will replace Rowntree? Head of Rugby Operations Ian Costello has taken over as Interim Head Coach but the recruitment process for a new head coach has begun immediately with a legend of the province emerging as an early favourite.

According to BoyleSports, Paul O’Connell currently leads the way, with the Ireland forwards coach at 6/4. Mike Prendergast and Springboks coach Jerry Flannery can be got at 4/1 with Ronan O’Gara an outside shot at 5/1.

Next Permanent Munster Head Coach

6/4 Paul O’Connell

4/1 Mike Prendergast

4/1 Jerry Flannery

5/1 Ronan O’Gara

8/1 Tyler Bleyendaal

12/1 Denis Leamy

16/1 Declan Kidney