Stuart McCloskey is expected to miss the European Challenge Cup final after sustaining a serious hamstring injury during Ulster’s semi-final victory over Exeter Chiefs.
The 33-year-old centre underwent an MRI scan earlier this week and was unavailable for Ulster’s dramatic 38-38 draw against Stormers in the United Rugby Championship on Friday.
Head coach Richie Murphy admitted the injury could keep McCloskey sidelined for four to six weeks, making his chances of featuring in the final against Montpellier extremely slim.
Murphy said the experienced midfielder has a “serious hamstring injury” and described his availability for the Bilbao final as “probably not likely”.
Ulster’s injury concerns have continued to grow, with Jacob Stockdale struggling with a facial fracture and David McCann nursing a knee injury after the semi-final clash.
Captain Iain Henderson is also facing uncertainty after his yellow card against Stormers was upgraded to a 20-minute red card for a croc-roll incident. The matter is now set to go before a disciplinary panel.
Murphy frustrated after dramatic Stormers draw
Ulster were denied victory in the closing stages against Stormers after a controversial penalty try decision.
Nathan Doak appeared to have secured the win with a try-saving intervention, but the officials ruled shoulder-to-head contact following a review. Doak received a yellow card and Stormers were awarded a penalty try.
Murphy admitted the decision was difficult to accept and questioned the consistency of officiating during the contest.
Despite the disappointment, the Ulster coach praised his side’s resilience and attacking display in an intense encounter that produced 11 tries.
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