The Munster Rugby coach and former player Anthony Foley has passed away.

Irish Rugby have confirmed the sudden death of the 42-year-old on Facebook and Twitter.

Anthony is survived by his wife Olive, their two children extended family and friends.

The Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed its providing consular assistance through the embassy in Paris.

We regret to announce the sudden passing of @Munsterrugby coach Anthony Foley. Our thoughts & prayers are with his family at this time. RIP — Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) October 16, 2016

The coach died overnight, while in Paris with the Munster Rugby team who were to play Racing 92.

Anthony Foley entraîneur et figure du Munster serait décédé.

Le match racing-munster vers un report. — Vincent Pochulu (@Vincent_Pochulu) October 16, 2016

As a mark of respect, the match will now be rescheduled.

EPCR chairman Simon Halliday said: "On behalf of EPCR, I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to Anthony’s family and to everyone associated with Munster and Irish rugby. He was a magnificent player and a superb coach and he will be sorely missed."

It is with great sadness that we bid farewell to our coach, former captain, colleague and friend today, rest in peace Anthony Foley. — Munster Rugby (@Munsterrugby) October 16, 2016

Mr Foley was a former Munster and Ireland player.

Foley captained Ireland three times during a 62-cap career, and he skippered Munster to Heineken Cup glory in 2006, with victory over Biarritz in Cardiff.

Back-rower Foley made a try-scoring international debut against England in the 1995 Six Nations, but it was from 2000 to 2005 that he became established as a key figure in Ireland’s team.

He made just one substitute appearance at the 1995 World Cup before starting two matches at the 2003 tournament, and last featured in international rugby during the 2005 Six Nations.

He retired in 2008, leaving Munster as the club’s most-capped player with 194 appearances for the provincial side.