Ulster announce a second Super Rugby Pacific signing in 24 hours

New Ulster boss Richie Murphy has followed up Monday’s signing of out-half Aidan Morgan on a two-year deal from the Hurricanes by confirming another arrival from the Super Rugby Pacific, Jimmy Duffy who has been assisting Western Force.

Duffy previously assisted Murphy as part of the Ireland U20s management and he has now taken up the offer to switch from Perth to Belfast to rekindle their working relationship.

A statement read: “After two seasons with the Western Force, Jimmy Duffy is set to make a return closer to home when he links up with Ulster for the 2024/25 season on a two-year deal.

"Having previously worked alongside Richie Murphy with the Ireland U20s, Jimmy will play an integral role in developing Ulster’s forwards as part of the recently confirmed Head Coach’s set-up.

“The pair enjoyed success in the Irish U20s 2022 Six Nations Grand Slam win when Jimmy was assistant coach before he made the move to the Perth-based Western Force for the 2022/23 season.

“Involved for many years before his move to Australia with Connacht across the grassroots and professional game, Jimmy enjoyed success as an assistant coach with his native province, including when the side lifted silverware in the PRO12 back in 2016.”

Murphy said: “We are really looking forward to Jimmy joining us in Belfast next season. Alongside Roddy (Grant), he is set to bring the best out of our forwards, including the younger homegrown guys currently coming through into the Senior set-up.

“From my experience of working with Jimmy, I know he is detail-driven and a coach who builds strong relationships with his players – and his knowledge and experience will be very welcome when it comes to coaching our scrum. I’m excited about the potential of what we can all achieve working together.”

Duffy added: “I’m looking forward to working alongside Richie again and to be a part of what he is building at Ulster. There is a lot of young talent in the squad, as well as some more experienced players, who are all intent on achieving something special together.

"It’s exciting to make the move to Belfast, and I can’t wait to get started this summer.”