Munster ban pitch invader who confronted Vunipola

Munster have banned the supporter who confronted Billy Vunipola on the pitch after their European Rugby Champions Cup semi-final against Saracens at the Ricoh Arena from all home matches. 

England number eight Vunipola was approached by the spectator, who was wearing a Munster jersey, following Sarries’ 32-16 victory on April 20. 

The incident came at the end of a week that saw Vunipola given a formal warning by the RFU after he offered a defence of Israel Folau’s controversial social media post, in which the Australia and Waratahs back shared an image that said “hell awaits” homosexuals. 

The fan – who has already been banned from the Ricoh Arena – was swiftly led away by stewards but Vunipola claimed the incident was “quite scary” in an interview with the BBC. 

Munster have now confirmed the supporter will not be allowed to attend home fixtures. 

A club statement read: “Following further investigation into the incident involving a spectator entering the field of play at the Ricoh Arena, the province can confirm that a decision has been made to prohibit the supporter from attending matches at Irish Independent Park and Thomond Park, in addition to the ban from the Ricoh Arena. 

“The province wishes to reiterate it does not condone the entry of any spectator onto the field of play. 

“While it was hugely disappointing to see a supporter breach the stadium regulations, the behaviour of this one individual is not reflective of our supporters.” 

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