Before the season even begins, Ulster have lurched towards another crisis.
With Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding withdrawn from active duty due to an upcoming court case and star scrum-half Ruan Pienaar now settling in at Montpellier, Ulster are set lose their best attacking talent.
Bristol Rugby has released news that Charles Piutau will join them from Ulster Rugby for the 2018/19 season.
Having won the Guinness PRO12 Players’ Player of the Year award back in May, Ulster are now resigned to parting ways with the All Blacks star.
A statement from Bristol reads, ‘In one of the biggest coups in the club’s history, Pat Lam brings in the 25 year-old utility back on a two-year deal from Ulster.’
Piutau, who will link up with his brother, Siale, and coach Pat Lam at the English Championship side said:
“To join Bristol Rugby and be part of the vision that Pat Lam and his coaching team has is very appealing to me. I understand the challenges that lie ahead for the club but firmly believe Bristol can once again become a major force in English and European rugby.
“I’m looking forward to playing alongside my brother Siale and being part of a club that can inspire the community and receives massive backing from the city’s supporters.
“By sorting my playing future early, I can focus entirely on Ulster this season and what the team can achieve in the PRO14 and Europe.”
Piutau is also set to link up with Ireland outhalf Ian Madigan, who joined the club from Bordeaux over the summer.
