Ulster issue encouraging update on Angus Bell ahead of Cup semi-final

Wallaby ace Angus Bell could be in contention for a swift return to the Ulster matchday squad for Saturday’s EPCR Challenge Cup semi-final against Exeter.

Bell, 25, was carted off in the loss to Leinster a fortnight ago after injuring his foot when his studs appear to get caught in the ground, and missed last weekend’s 41-14 defeat to Munster as a result.

The loose-head prop has struggled with recurring foot injuries in the recent past and once feared he might have to quit the game. However, the latest injury would only appear to be minor, given that Ulster say he is already back in light training.

Bell, who weighs 127kgs and stands 1.91m tall, has made 18 appearances, scoring four tries, since moving to Belfast from the Waratahs in December and his availability would be a huge boost to the Irish province with a place in the Challenge Cup final at stake.

James Hume (neck) and Bryn Ward (shoulder) have also resumed elements of team training and individual decisions regarding the trio’s fitness for selection will be made later in the week.

In a further boost, Tom O’Toole (hand), Nick Timoney (hip) and Jude Postlethwaite (hand) are all back in full training.

However, Callum Reid (foot) and Ben Carson (calf) picked up injuries against Munster and are definitely out of the semi-final, while Eric O’Sullivan (back), who also picked up a knock, will have his fitness monitored this week.