Munster head coach Anthony Foley dies suddenly in Paris aged 42

Munster head coach and former Ireland international Anthony Foley has died suddenly at 42, the Irish Rugby Football Union have confirmed.

Foley, who won 62 caps for Ireland between 1995-2005, passed away overnight at the team hotel in Paris.

Munster were scheduled to face Racing 92 in a European Champions Cup match on Sunday afternoon, a match that has now been postponed.

No further details over his death have been given.

A statement from the IRFU read: "It is with deep regret that the Irish Rugby Football Union and Munster Rugby must advise of the passing overnight of Munster Rugby head coach Anthony Foley, at the team hotel in Paris.

"Munster Rugby management are liaising directly with Anthony's family and will provide them with any assistance and support required.

"Thr IRFU and Munster Rugby pass on our deepest sympathies to all of Anthony's family and friends and ask for privacy for the family at this sad time.

"As a mark of respect to Anthony and his family and to support players, management and staff, Muster Rugby have requested that today's match against Racing 92 be rescheduled."

Foley, born in Limerick, spent 13 years of his career at Munster, making 202 appearances for the side he would go on to captain in 2005. He led the province to Heineken Cup glory in 2006 before his retirement two years later. Following his retirement, the former back-rower joined the Munster coaching staff before taking over as head coach in 2014 to replace Rob Penney.

For Ireland, Foley appeared in two World Cups in 1995 and 2003, captaining his country on three occasions.