Ulster unveil returning stars for Bulls showdown

SQUAD UPDATE: Ulster received a double boost ahead of their United Rugby Championship Round Three clash against the Bulls in Belfast on Saturday.

It comes in the form of Ireland internationals Robert Baloucoune and Eric O’Sullivan. Both are fit and available after recovering from injuries.

Baloucoune had an injury-ravaged 2024-2025 season, and he also missed this season’s opener against the Dragons due to an ankle injury.

He returned to rugby last Saturday, playing for Ballynahinch RFC in the All-Ireland League.

O’Sullivan also returns to training after his knee injury.

Meanwhile, Michael Lowry (abdominal strain) and Jacob Stockdale (foot) are still injury doubts for this week’s fixture, and their fitness will be monitored through this week.

The following players are unavailable (injury & estimated return to play dates for each in brackets): Ben Moxham (Knee, December 2025), James McNabney (Knee, TBC), Lorcan McLoughlin (Elbow, December 2025), Ethan McIlroy (Knee, December 2025) and Callum Reid (Concussion, next week).

Ulster’s Round Two fixture against Edinburgh was suspended due to Storm Amy.

The Bulls will be a force on tour after they named 13 Springboks in their travelling squad.

Some of them include Handre Pollard, Canan Moodie and Wilco Louw.