Roger Randle's appointment as Munster's attack coach has been shelved with the province confirming on Thursday night the move will not be happening.
Randle, a former All Blacks international, was set to join the club next season after signing a two-year deal with the province earlier this month, but the move has led to intense scrutiny with a number of resignations within the organisation.
He has previously worked with fellow Kiwi Clayton McMillan, who is in his first season in charge.
In 1997, Randle was accused of raping a woman while in Durban, South Africa with his former club Hurricanes.
The New Zealander was initially charged with rape, but the case did not proceed as the complainant dropped the charges. Randle has always denied the allegation against him.
In a statement, Munster Rugby insisted that "due diligence" was followed before Randle's hiring.
On Thursday, they issued a statement that said: "Following recent discussions and having considered the circumstances that have developed after the announcement, Roger and Munster Rugby have mutually agreed not to proceed with the appointment."
Randle added: "I am deeply saddened that unfounded allegations from nearly 30 years ago - allegations I have always denied - have resurfaced during this process and overshadowed what was a wonderful opportunity to contribute to Munster Rugby.
"I want to state clearly that these claims are false, and I maintain my complete and unwavering innocence, as I always have.
"It became clear that the renewed public attention around these allegations had created circumstances where proceeding with the role was no longer the right outcome for our family. This is something that we accept with genuine sadness and disappointment.
"My priority now is supporting my family and moving forward, while continuing to stand by the truth.
"I would like to sincerely thank Clayton, the wider Munster Rugby organisation and its supporters, and I wish them every success in the future."
It emerged last week that three former Munster players, Billy Holland, Mick O'Driscoll and Killian Keane, resigned from the Professional Games Committee, while the Irish Independent reported that some members of the club's Commercial Advisory Group also resigned.
McMillan said he was "personally disappointed" that Randle would not be coming on board.
"I want to acknowledge Roger's professionalism throughout this process and the way he has engaged in what have been difficult discussions for everyone," he said.
"I am personally disappointed that we will not have the opportunity to work together at Munster. I know Roger well, he’s an outstanding person and coach, and I believe he would have brought a real quality to the programme."
Munster general manager Ian Costello commented: "This has been a difficult conclusion to reach, but after recent discussions, it became clear that this was the best course of action for Roger, his family and Munster Rugby.
"Our focus remains on supporting the team for the rest of the season and ensuring we have the best structures and systems in place for the 2026/27 season."
