Injury Woes Hit Ulster Ahead of Challenge Cup Semi-Final Against Exeter Chiefs

Injury Woes Hit Ulster Ahead of Challenge Cup Semi-Final Against Exeter Chiefs

Australia prop Angus Bell and centre James Hume have been ruled out of Ulster's Challenge Cup semi-final against Exeter Chiefs on Saturday. Both players faced injury concerns after leaving the pitch during a United Rugby Championship defeat to Leinster in April. On Tuesday, Ulster confirmed that Bell would be evaluated for a foot injury, while Hume is dealing with a neck complaint. Unfortunately, neither player has recovered in time for the match. Dafydd Jenkins, a second-row from Wales, will captain Exeter, who are also missing Greg Fisilau, Paul Brown-Bampoe, and suspended back row Ethan Roots. Exeter is aiming for their first trophy since winning the Prem Rugby Cup in 2022-23 and seeks to reclaim European glory after their Champions Cup victory in 2020. In contrast, Ulster last lifted a trophy in 2006 with their Celtic League win. The victor will advance to face either Montpellier or Dragons in the final set for 22 May in Bilbao. After a disappointing performance against Munster, head coach Richie Murphy has made 14 changes for Ulster's first semi-final appearance in four years. Sam Crean will step in for Bell as part of the front row alongside Tom Stewart and Tom O'Toole. Ian Henderson and Cormac Izuchukwu will form the second row. Nick Timoney returns from injury to join David McCann and Juarno Augustus in the back row. The half-back pairing consists of Nathan Doak and Jack Murphy, with Stuart McCloskey and the returning Jude Postlethwaite starting at centre. The back three features Jacob Stockdale, Zac Ward, and Michael Lowry. Notably, Bryn Ward, another casualty from the Leinster match, is fit to take a spot on the bench.

Source: BBC Sport - 2026-05-01