Overview
- Bell rejoined the Wallabies this week and is expected to start against Ireland in Sydney next weekend following a six‑month loan at Ulster that included URC and Challenge Cup matches.
- He suffered a frightening left‑foot injury in April while playing for Ulster but was medically cleared and returned to action three weeks later, easing concerns about his chronic foot problems.
- Bell says the variety of opponents in the United Rugby Championship and the European Challenge Cup gave him week‑to‑week, test‑like challenges that improved his scrum work and match readiness.
- His viral solo try for Ulster against Cardiff won the URC’s try of the season and highlighted his mobility, while his time in Belfast also kept him close to Joe Schmidt’s coaching shapes.
- Joe Schmidt recalled veteran loosehead James Slipper to bolster depth for the July Tests, and reports differ on whether Ireland’s touring squad includes eight or ten Ulstermen when they face the Wallabies.