Fly-half Morgan's Ulster move confirmed

Ulster have confirmed that Hurricanes' fly-half Aidan Morgan is to join the province on a two-year contract.

The 23-year-old, who played for the New Zealand Under-20 team, is qualified to represent Ireland through a Belfast-born grandfather.

Ulster have been looking for a number 10 since it was confirmed that Billy Burns would be joining Munster this summer.

Morgan is in his third season of Super Rugby Pacific with the table-topping Hurricanes, starting last weekend's win over Moana Pasifika, but has found his minutes limited by the presence of All Black Brett Cameron in Wellington.

Former Ireland Under-20 boss Richie Murphy was confirmed as the new Ulster head coach this month, arriving in Belfast with a reputation for fostering young talent.

Morgan will fit into the age profile of an Ulster side presently on a four-match winning run - with key contributions from the likes of Dave McCann, Harry Sheridan and Cormac Izuchukwu.

Ulster have already announced Sharks wing Werner Kok's arrival for the 2024-25 season.

'Being Irish-qualified an added bonus'

Ulster's director of operations Bryn Cunningham said that Morgan "will bring a mix of youth, competitiveness and high energy" to the squad.

"He also, importantly as a 10, exudes a maturity beyond his years. Being Irish-qualified with roots to Ulster is undoubtedly an added bonus," said Cunningham.

Morgan said that he was looking forward to "representing Ulster and the birthplace of my grandfather".

"I know that Ulster is steeped in history, and I'm looking forward to being a part of the atmosphere at Kingspan Stadium," he added.

"I'm really excited for the opportunity to be a part of a talented team, and to play in front of the club’s passionate supporters."