Fisher joins Munster with a wealth of coaching experience after his involvement as head coach and assistant coach with the Super 14 side, ACT Brumbies, over the last eight years.

He was also head coach of Australia 'A' for the last three seasons.

Munster CEO Garrett Fitzgerald highlighted the interest in the forwards coach position, saying: "I had never seen such an interest for a position and this reflects the stature of where Munster currently is.

"We took our time with the selection process rather that just picking anyone.

"We wanted someone with experience at the highest level, and a knowledge of the ELVs (Experimental Law Variations) was a bonus at this stage when securing a head coach from a Super 14 side."

New Munster coach Tony McGahan also recognised this point when asked about the upcoming trial of the ELVs in Northern Hemisphere rugby.

He admitted: "There will be huge changes, like you see in the Southern Hemisphere, and Laurie's experience with the Brumbies and Super 14 will be of great benefit to Munster Rugby."