Richie Murphy may only be in charge at Ulster just over a month, but the search for the province's permanent head coach looks to be over.
After three very successful seasons as Ireland U20s head coach, where he led the side to two Grand Slam titles, Richie Murphy replaced Dan McFarland on an interim basis at Ulster in March.
The province has struggled in recent years, with financial issues seeming to have a drastic effect on performances on the pitch. While the squad depth and quality at the Kingspan Stadium is a far-cry from what it once was a decade ago, it was hoped that Murphy could help the team back to a competitive level for the remainder of the season.
While Richie Murphy had expressed his interest in taking the role on permanently, it's being reported, that Ulster's fate will lie in the hands of a veteran South African coach.
Frans Ludeke linked with Ulster job
Frans Ludeke is currently the head coach of Japanese Top League side Kubota Spears. The South African is also the most experienced coach in Super Rugby history and led the Bulls to two titles over his time in charge between 2008 and 2015.
He also spent time in charge of the Cats and South African Currie Cup sides, the Blue Bulls and the Golden Lions.
According to journalist and Japanese rugby insider, Rich Freeman, Ludeke is set to leave Asia this summer and take over at Ulster.
According to reports & sources set to be number of new coaches in JRLO Div 1 next season
P. Hewat (Ricoh) reported to be joining Leicester
J. Ackermann (D-Rocks) said he is looking to leave Japan to return to SA
My understanding is F. Ludeke (Kubota) will take over at Ulster
— Rich Freeman (@FreemanrugbyJPN) April 24, 2024
It's set to be a busy off-season at Ulster, with two-time World Cup winner Steven Kitshoff departing the province, along with the experienced Billy Burns who's on his way to Thomond Park.
Luke Marshall also announced his retirement earlier this month.
Springbok Werner Kok will join the side for the 2024/25 season, while veteran All-Black Aaron Cruden has also been linked with a move to Ulster.
The 42.ie reported on Tuesday that Richie Murphy's son, Jack, will move on from Leinster to join Ulster along with fellow U20 stars Wilhelm De Klerk and Sam Berman.
Big changes are needed at the province ahead of the new campaign, and the possible arrival of Frans Ludeke will likely excite supporters, but some might feel that it is blocking the path of another ambitous Irish coach.
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