Ulster face injury blow ahead of their Challenge Cup semi-final against Exeter Chiefs on Saturday. Australia prop Angus Bell and centre James Hume have been ruled out of the crucial Belfast showdown. Both players were forced off during the United Rugby Championship defeat by Leinster last month and have failed to recover from their respective foot and neck complaints.

Exeter Chiefs also face selection challenges with Greg Fisilau, Paul Brown-Bampoe and suspended back row Ethan Roots all missing. The Chiefs target a first trophy since their 2022-23 Prem Rugby Cup win, while Ulster seek their first silverware since winning the Celtic League in 2006. The victor advances to face either Montpellier or Dragons in the Bilbao final on May 22.

Ulster coach Richie Murphy made 14 changes following the heavy Munster defeat, with Sam Crean replacing the influential Bell in the front row. Exeter head coach Rob Baxter named a strong side despite recent Northampton and Gloucester defeats, with Wales second row Dafyd Jenkins captaining the side. Both teams recognize this as their best chance of European silver this season.