Ulster Faces Challenge Cup Final Without Key Quartet Against Montpellier

Ulster prepares for their Challenge Cup final against Montpellier in Bilbao on Friday, aiming to end a 20-year trophy drought. However, the team will be without four pivotal players: Iain Henderson, Stuart McCloskey, Jacob Stockdale, and Rob Herring. Iain Henderson is serving a three-game suspension due to a red card received against the Stormers. Stuart McCloskey faces a significant setback with a hamstring injury, ending his standout season at age 33. Jacob Stockdale sustained a facial fracture during the semi-final against the Exeter Chiefs, necessitating surgery. Rob Herring’s return from a calf injury was cut short just 14 minutes into the defeat by Glasgow. Ulster's centre James Hume expressed the team's determination, stating, "It's just trying to win it for them as much as for us." He highlighted the importance of celebrating the victory together with the absent players. Despite their absence, these players remain integral to the squad's preparations. Head coach Richie Murphy noted that the experienced quartet is actively helping the team, emphasizing, "Those four guys are working really hard to try and prepare the guys." While the loss of such experienced players is challenging, it opens opportunities for younger members of the squad. Only Werner Kok and Nick Timoney are over 30 among the remaining 20 players. Murphy aims for the team to attack the game and leave everything on the field, stating, "If that isn't enough then we'll have to take it, but if we can do that then we'll cause a little bit of trouble."

Source: BBC Sport - 2026-05-20