Robert Baloucoune Returns as Ulster Aims for Challenge Cup Glory Against Montpellier
Ulster has received a significant boost ahead of the European Challenge Cup final against Montpellier in Bilbao on Friday, as winger Robert Baloucoune is fit to start. Initially expected to be sidelined for three months due to an elbow injury sustained during Ireland's Six Nations victory over Scotland in March, Baloucoune’s early return to training has allowed him to take his place on the right wing. Head coach Richie Murphy has selected Baloucoune to join Mike Lowry and leading try-scorer Zac Ward in the back three, while Jacob Stockdale has been ruled out. In midfield, with Stuart McCloskey absent, Jude Postlethwaite teams up with James Hume. The first-choice half-back duo of Jack Murphy and Nathan Doak returns after being benched in last week’s loss to Glasgow. In the forwards, Angus Bell makes his final appearance for Ulster before heading back to Australia, playing at loose-head prop, while Tom O'Toole covers tight-head. Due to a calf issue, veteran hooker Rob Herring is replaced by Tom Stewart in the front row. With suspended captain Iain Henderson, Harry Sheridan partners Cormac Izuchukwu in the second row, and flanker David McCann has returned from injury to join stand-in skipper Nick Timoney and Juarno Augustus in the back row. Murphy has chosen a five-three split on the bench, featuring forwards James McCormick, Eric O'Sullivan, Scott Wilson, Charlie Irvine, and Bryn Ward, alongside backline replacements Conor McKee, Jake Flannery, and Ethan McIlroy. Ulster last lifted silverware in the 2006 Celtic League and seeks to end a 20-year wait for a title, while Montpellier, captained by former England number eight Billy Vunipola, aims to add to their two Challenge Cup victories.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-05-21