The Ulster head coach, Dan McFarland, recently expressed frustration over the “disruptive” impact of the Emerging Ireland tour to South Africa on his team’s preparation for the season. Several of Ulster’s key players were called up to the Emerging Ireland squad, which competes in developmental matches. McFarland highlighted how this tour disrupted the province’s pre-season training and planning, leaving them short on resources and affecting team cohesion.
He emphasized that while the tour offers valuable experience for young players, it creates challenges for provincial sides trying to build momentum and consistency early in the season. This criticism reflects the broader debate over balancing player development with the needs of domestic competitions.