Ulster head coach Richie Murphy praised his side’s resilience after they narrowed a 21‑point gap to come close to an upset against the Bulls in Pretoria. The Irish province fell 34‑26, securing a bonus point for four tries but losing a second bonus point when Bosch slotted a late penalty. Murphy highlighted early indiscipline and areas for improvement ahead of the next URC match against the Stormers.
Ulster Rugby opened their European Challenge Cup campaign with a dominant 40-21 victory over Zebre in Parma, scoring six tries and earning a bonus point. New academy graduate Henry Walker impressed with a brace on his debut, while Jacob Stockdale added another try for the province.
Ulster Rugby head coach Richie Murphy confirmed that centre James Hume will be sidelined for several weeks after sustaining a hamstring injury in training ahead of the URC opener against Edinburgh. The loss compounds existing midfield injuries, leaving Murphy with limited options as the team prepares for the new season.
Ulster Rugby has brought in former Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt as a coach development adviser, a move welcomed by forwards coach Clarke Dermody who highlighted Schmidt’s meticulous approach. Dermody also discussed the team’s pre‑season progress and upcoming fixtures as they prepare for the United Rugby Championship season.
Ulster Rugby has brought former Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt on board as a coach development adviser to help create a sustainable coaching pipeline. General manager Rory Best says Schmidt’s expertise will give the province a “lift” as they aim to improve squad depth and continuity ahead of the new United Rugby Championship season.
Former Ireland and Australia head coach Joe Schmidt has taken up a newly created consultancy role with Ulster Rugby as a coach development advisor. The 60‑year‑old will work on strengthening the province’s coaching pathway, while Ulster’s general manager Rory Best says the appointment fits into the club’s long‑term strategy for coach development.
Stuart McCloskey has agreed a one-year contract extension with Ulster, keeping him at the province until the end of the 2027-28 season. The 33-year-old had a standout 2025-26 season, helping Ireland achieve the Triple Crown in this year’s Six Nations. McCloskey has made 217 appearances for Ulster and is close to drawing level with Rory Best’s record.