ROYAL SEAL OF APPROVAL

New Munster boss glad of insight into Irish rugby from famous Kiwis

- BY MICHAEL SCULLY

MUNSTER'S new boss made sure to talk to some Kiwi royalty before taking the plunge and moving to Limerick.

Clayton McMillan and his family are settling into their new life in the rugby-mad city and the 51-year-old doesn't think he’s been recognised yet.

If he hasn't, that will change. “Yeah, I don't consider myself that identifiable, but maybe people are just respecting my space,” he said.

“As soon as we lose a game, they'll probably make themselves all known!”.

Munster’s search for Graham Rowntree’s successor landed on the Chiefs head coach, who had gained a big reputation for his side's style of play and the culture in the dressing-room.

He had coached the All Blacks XV against Munster in Thomond Park last November and was subsequently contacted about taking over in the Reds’ hot-seat.

He reached for his contacts book and talked to a number of compatriots who had played for Munster or coached the province — and even one who coached Leinster and Ireland.

“Yeah, lots” grinned McMillan. “Rua Tipoki. Alfie...I think you folks call him Dutchy, he’s the assistant coach with the All Blacks now — I know him well.