Jones joins Munster coaching staff

Felix Jones is to join the Munster coaching staff on a one-year deal.

Jones was forced to retire from rugby in October due to a neck injury but the former international full-back returns to Munster to assume a technical coaching role for the 2016-17 season.

Jacques Nienaber will join the province as defence coach on a three year contract, while Jerry Flannery extends his role of Scrum Coach for a further year.

Nienaber, who is currently the High Performance Manager with the South African Rugby Union, will join the province on July 1, subject to being granted a valid work permit, and like Jones and Flannery he will work under Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus and Head Coach Anthony Foley.

Current assistant coach Brian Walsh will leave the province along with Ian Costello and Mick O'Driscoll.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank our departing coaches for their hard work and commitment to Munster Rugby. In addition to reaching the Guinness PRO12 Final in 2015, each have been instrumental in developing exciting new talent for the province and we wish Brian, Ian and Mick all the best for the future." Munster Rugby CEO Garrett Fitzgerald said.

"We are delighted to finalise our coaching requirements for next season and look forward to welcoming Jacques and Felix to the set-up. Jacques is a highly rated and sought after coach who brings a wealth of experience with him after working across all levels of the game. We believe he will be a great addition to the coaching staff.

“While Felix, who had a hugely successful playing career with both Munster and Ireland, will provide invaluable technical know-how in aiding the development of our young squad."