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.