Alex Codling leaves Munster to join Toulon after one season at Thomond Park

Alex Codling is leaving Munster at the end of the current season to join Toulon in the Top 14, with the 52-year-old forwards coach set to fill the coaching vacancy created by Sergio Parisse’s departure to Gonzalo Quesada’s staff at the Stade Mayol.

The former England lock joined Munster as a forwards coach consultant in November 2024 while simultaneously serving as forwards coach of the Ireland Women’s team, before taking up a full-time role at Thomond Park. His move to Toulon will mark his third professional stint in France, having previously represented Montpellier as a player and coached the forwards at Oyonnax.

“It was an incredibly tough decision to leave Munster as I have loved every minute of working with this special group of players,” Codling said. He also paid tribute to the club’s supporters, singling out the travelling fans who followed the team to La Rochelle last season as a memory he would carry for the rest of his life.

Head coach Clayton McMillan praised Codling’s technical expertise and commitment during his time at the province. “Alex has an unparalleled passion for lineouts. This is reflected through his outstanding work ethic, high attention to detail, and strong connection to the players,” McMillan said. “We understand the significant sacrifices he has made over the last two seasons to help us grow at Munster, and whilst we will miss his influence, we wish him all the best in his exciting new chapter.”

General manager Ian Costello also thanked Codling for his contribution, describing it as “such a positive” influence on the club across two seasons.

Munster have not yet announced a successor. The province face the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday in the United Rugby Championship quarter-finals, meaning Codling’s final weeks with the club could still include a deep run in the competition.