One of the dilemmas facing any retired sportsperson writing a book is how much to reveal about the way things really were. On the pitch, Conor Murray was the antithesis of the yappy number nine. Tall, strong, hard-working and skilful, Murray had the priceless ability to compartmentalise, putting bad moments behind him and concentrating on the task ahead. No wonder Joe Schmidt loved him.
Ireland’s greatest scrumhalf (Johnny Sexton’s description) exuded composure under pressure, though he acknowledges the abuse he sometimes received online got to him. By his own admission not a “talker”, Murray led Munster, Ireland and the Lions by exemplary decision-making and execution.
The highs and lows of the Irish rugby team over the last decade or so have been outlined by other players in their books, Sexton included. Murray is complimentary about Declan Kidney, Schmidt and Andy Farrell.
What’s different here is the refreshing candour with which Murray analyses the decline of Munster Rugby. He identifies the air of stagnation (“a s**t show”) as the club loses its aura, and rails against the organisation’s “penny-pinching” on travel arrangements for players. Murray berates Munster for not buying suitable overseas recruits, and for refusing to consult senior players before deciding who to sign.
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He’s also critical of the turnover of head coaches, and has little good to say about the strategies of Rob Penney, Johann van Graan and - especially - Graham Rowntree. Murray doesn’t rate “Wig” as a head coach and gives the credit for winning the 2023 United Rugby Championship to Mike Prendergast and Denis Leamy – and the senior players – rather than Rowntree.
[ Conor Murray reflects on Ireland career after announcing retirementOpens in new window ]
Players frequently have gripes with their clubs and coaches, especially when they’re dropped (as Murray was by Rowntree). But the amiable Murray doesn’t seem vindictive. The concerns raised by a player of his stature merit serious consideration, especially as they suggest a deeper malaise. Murray served Munster (and Ireland) well for many years; in calling out these issues he has done the Red Army a further service. The quiet man of Irish rugby has lots to say.
John O’Donnell’s short story collection Mr Hoo and other stories will be published by Doire Press in 2026.
