The Irish Rugby Football Union would like to express their sympathies on behalf of Irish Rugby to the family of Ireland International Moss Keane, who has passed away. Second row Moss Keane began his international career against France in Paris in 1974 and continued to play at the very top level of the game for over 10 years until his final international cap against Scotland in 1984.  During that time he amassed 51 caps for Ireland and was also part of the team that secured an historic Triple Crown in 1982, the first Ireland had won since 1949.

As well as serving his clubs UCC and Lansdowne with great distinction, Keane was a member of the famous Munster team that defeated the All Blacks in Thomond Park in 1978 and was a stalwart for the province during his career.  Keane was also capped for the British & Irish Lions, playing twelve games including a test match on the 1977 New Zealand tour.

Commenting on the news of Moss Keane’s passing, IRFU President Caleb Powell said, “Quite simply Irish Rugby has lost one of its most genuine characters and legends of the game.  Moss had ability on the field that no one could doubt from his record at club, provincial and international level. UCC, Lansdowne, Munster, Ireland and the British & Irish Lions all benefited from his presence and ensured that his reputation will live long in the memories of not only Irish rugby, but world rugby.”

“My own memories of Moss were his great belief in the ethos of the game which was evident in how he related to players from all levels in our club Lansdowne.  It did not matter whether you were an Ireland international or playing for the third B’s, he always had time for everybody in the club and he will be sorely missed.”

The Committee and staff of the Irish Rugby Football Union extend their condolences to Moss’ wife Anne, his two daughters, Sarah and Anne Marie, and his extended family and friends.