Stuart McCloskey is set to miss the Challenge Cup final with a serious hamstring injury. The 33-year-old Ulster centre sustained the problem in the semi-final win over Exeter Chiefs. Coach Richie Murphy confirmed the 4-6 week recovery timeline, making the final appearance highly unlikely.

Ulster's injury crisis deepens as Jacob Stockdale (facial fracture) and David McCann (knee) also face doubts for the Bilbao showdown. The team drew 38-38 with Stormers after a controversial ending saw a penalty try awarded to the away side despite Nathan Doak's potential match-saving tackle.

Murphy expressed frustration with the officiating decisions that cost Ulster victory. "We look at that last sort of two minutes or so from a defensive point of view and we didn't defend well enough," he admitted. With captain Iain Henderson also facing a judiciary review after his red card, Ulster must navigate significant selection challenges for the final.