Tom McGurk on rugby

In granting a contract to a South African player found guilty of steroid abuse, Munster Rugby are making an ill-advised move

Munster’s controversial acquisition of Gerbrandt Grobler, from the French side Racing 92, has provoked much debate among the rugby community Picture: INPHO/Daniel Matthams

For generations, Munster has been more than just a rugby club in the pantheon of Irish sport. Its place in our affection has not been just about its undoubted successes. Uniquely, it has represented a set of values that those who love sport cannot but be touched by.

It’s the relic of old decency in this sporting age where Corinthian values have almost disappeared. It is as Irish as Irish can be. When ...