EPCR Challenge Cup Final: Ulster and Montpellier Team News for Tonight

The province head into the decider boosted by the timely return of Ireland international Robert Baloucoune, who makes his first start since suffering an arm injury during Ireland’s Six Nations clash with Scotland in March. The winger’s comeback is a major lift for Ulster, who have been without several experienced names in recent weeks, including Jacob Stockdale, Stuart McCloskey, Rob Herring and suspended lock Iain Henderson.

Murphy has made four changes to the side that defeated Exeter Chiefs in the semi-finals, with Nick Timoney captaining the team from openside flanker.

Ulster’s pack features plenty of international pedigree. Wallaby loosehead Angus Bell starts alongside Ireland internationals Tom Stewart and Tom O’Toole in the front row, while Harry Sheridan partners the increasingly influential Cormac Izuchukwu in the second row.

There is further good news in the back row, with David McCann passed fit following a recent knee injury. The in-form Juarno Augustus completes a powerful loose forward trio at number eight.

Behind the scrum, Nathan Doak and Jack Murphy continue their half-back partnership, while Jude Postlethwaite returns to partner James Hume in midfield.

Top try-scorer Zac Ward starts on the left wing, with Baloucoune on the opposite flank and Michael Lowry selected at full-back.

Ulster also boast strong reinforcements on the bench, with Murphy opting for a 5:3 split that includes James McCormick, Eric O’Sullivan, Scott Wilson, Charlie Irvine and Bryn Ward as forward cover.

Standing in their way is a Montpellier side packed with Top 14 quality and international experience. Former England number eight Billy Vunipola captains the French outfit, while Scotland scrum-half Ali Price, Australia full-back Tom Banks and France centre Arthur Vincent add further firepower.

Montpellier have endured an inconsistent domestic campaign but remain dangerous opponents with significant power through the pack and attacking threats across the backline.

For Ulster, victory would not only secure European silverware, but could also have major implications for next season’s Champions Cup qualification picture.

Ulster (15-9, 1-8) Michael Lowry; Robert Baloucoune, James Hume, Jude Postlethwaite, Zac Ward; Jack Murphy, Nathan Doak; Angus Bell, Tom Stewart, Tom O’Toole; Harry Sheridan, Cormac Izuchukwu; David McCann, Nick Timoney (c), Juarno Augustus.

Replacements: (16-23) James McCormick, Eric O’Sullivan, Scott Wilson, Charlie Irvine, Bryn Ward, Conor McKee, Jake Flannery, Ethan McIlroy.

Montpellier: (15-9, 1-8) Tom Banks; Gabriel N’Gandebe, Arthur Vincent, Auguste Cadot, Donovan Taofifenua; Domingo Miotti, Ali Price; Enzo Forletta, Jordan Uelese, Mohamed Haouas; Florian Verhaeghe, Tyler Duguid; Lenni Nouchi, Alex Becognee, Billy Vunipola (c).

Replacements: (16-23) Lyam Akrab, Baptiste Erdocio, Wilfrid Hounkpatin, Adam Beard, Marco Tauleigne, Leo Coly, Thomas Darmon, Jon Echegaray.