The stage is set for an enthralling EPCR Challenge Cup Final as Ulster, boosted by the return of Robert Baloucoune, prepare to clash with Montpellier at the San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao. Ulster's head coach Richie Murphy has named his squad, signaling a robust lineup that includes the Irish wing who is back after a triumphant but injury-marking stint in the Six Nations. Montpellier, on the other hand, carry momentum from a nail-biting 36-33 victory over Castres in the Top 14, ensuring a finely poised battle ahead.
Robert Baloucoune's return is a significant uplift for Ulster. His comeback not only brings experience but also a renewed attacking edge. "Seeing Robert back on the right wing is a boost for the team and our supporters," remarked Murphy. Baloucoune will partner with Zac Ward, the team's top try-scorer, and Michael Lowry, who retains his position as full-back.
"It's great to have Robert back. His presence on the field is invaluable, and we're looking forward to what he can bring to this crucial match," Murphy shared.
In the midfield, Ulster faces a reshuffle due to Stuart McCloskey's absence with a hamstring injury. Jude Postlethwaite and James Hume will fill the inside and outside centre roles, respectively. The half-backs will see Nathan Doak and Jack Murphy steering the ship, both of whom recently showcased their mettle off the bench in the URC.
Up front, the trio of Angus Bell, Tom Stewart, and Tom O’Toole will anchor the scrum. The pack is completed with Harry Sheridan and Cormac Izuchukwu locking down the second row, while David McCann, Nick Timoney, and Juarno Augustus form a formidable back-row unit.
Montpellier fields a strong lineup with Australian internationals Jordan Uelese and Tom Banks starting as hooker and full-back, respectively. The leadership of former England number eight Billy Vunipola, alongside the scrum-half skills of Ali Price, adds depth and tactical acumen. The presence of French internationals Lenni Nouchi and Arthur Vincent further bolsters their lineup, making them formidable opponents.
The match, poised to be a tightly contested affair, sees Montpellier slightly favored to win by a narrow margin. However, the dynamics of rugby are unpredictable, and with the stakes as high as they are, anything can happen on the day.
Teams for the final are as follows:
Montpellier: 15 Tom Banks, 14 Gabriel N’Gandebe, 13 Arthur Vincent, 12 Auguste Cadot, 11 Donovan Taofifenua, 10 Domingo Miotti, 9 Ali Price, 8 Billy Vunipola (c), 7 Alex Becognee, 6 Lenni Nouchi, 5 Tyler Duguid, 4 Florian Verhaeghe, 3 Mohamed Haouas, 2 Jordan Uelese, 1 Enzo Forletta. Replacements: 16 Lyam Akrab, 17 Baptiste Erdocio, 18 Wilfrid Hounkpatin, 19 Adam Beard, 20 Marco Tauleigne, 21 Leo Coly, 22 Thomas Darmon, 23 Jon Echegaray.
Ulster: 15 Mike Lowry, 14 Robert Baloucoune, 13 James Hume, 12 Jude Postlethwaite, 11 Zac Ward, 10 Jack Murphy, 9 Nathan Doak, 8 Juarno Augustus, 7 Nick Timoney (c),