Two-year contract with Ulster for Wicklow’s Richie Murphy

The Wicklow man succeeded Dan McFarland on an interim basis back in February, having previously led the Ireland U20s to back-to-back Six Nations including the 2023 Grand Slam.

The 54-year-old has led Ulster to sixth in the United Rugby Championship ahead of their final two games against Leinster – coached by his fellow Wicklow-native Leo Cullen – and Munster.

They have won their last three games on the bounce, with their run of form seeing Murphy awarded with a two-year deal to become the permanent head coach.

“I’m looking forward to continuing with Ulster after a very enjoyable start to my time with the club,” said Murphy. “I would like to thank all of the support staff, especially Bryn Cunningham, for helping me settle in.

“Bryn has been a big part of this process, and I would like to thank him for all his efforts in getting us to this point.

“It’s no secret that I was keen to stay on in the role of Head Coach with the province, as I can see what is building here at Ulster and how I can contribute to growing that in the coming years.

“We have a very talented group at Ulster and, together with a loyal and dedicated supporter base, I’m relishing the opportunity to see what we can all achieve together.”

Interim CEO of Ulster Rugby, Hugh McCaughey, added: “We are delighted at Ulster Rugby to have Richie committed to the province for the next two seasons.

“Over the past couple of weeks, we have had an insight into what Richie, the coaching staff and squad have the potential to achieve together, with today’s announcement providing the stability needed for this to continue.

“With a young squad, and a pipeline of talent coming through our Player Pathway, it’s an exciting time for the club as we look to build the foundations that will set us up for success in the years ahead.

“Richie has vast experience in developing young players and is ambitious to achieve success, so he is a perfect fit for what we need.”