Challenge Cup final: Bilbao or bust – Will Ulster bounce back with a trophy?

In the beautiful Basque city of Bilbao, in the north of Spain and which is hosting European rugby finals for the second time, Ulster got their first taste of the San Mames Stadium in the captain’s run on Thursday.

It is a huge occasion, but the session was full of smiles and laughter, rather than any visible nerves.

Ulster may be missing key players, such as Henderson and the injured trio of Stuart McCloskey, Jacob Stockdale and Rob Herring, and only 23 players will take to the pitch on Friday.

But there was unity as the wider group took part in the captain’s run, with players playing football as well as warming up with a rugby ball.

There were no signs of lingering disappointment from Friday’s late defeat by Glasgow Warriors, which ultimately led to them missing out on the top eight in the URC.

“It’s a week that’s not difficult to get up for,” said hooker Tom Stewart.

“We’ve all said it, being in a cup final doesn’t come around too often. It has been a special time for the boys.

“It has been special to get behind Nick and watch how he has taken the team, and watch boys grow into the opportunity that is in front of them.”