Gerry Thornley

I think it's worked for them this season.

And of course, if they were to win the final, then it doesn't matter if they finish ninth in the URC.

Winning the Challenge Cup would get you the Champions Cup next year.

And also mean that whoever finishes eighth in the URC, were it Ulster to finish ninth, wouldn't qualify for next season's Champions Cup.

So there's a few little interesting twists and turns coming this season.

And like I said, it's brilliant for Ulster.

They'll bring a load of fans, you would imagine, for that Friday night game.

Just if any of us can get to Bilbao and manage to find a place to stay that weekend, it means we have to work both nights.

It sure does, and it seems quite pointed.

The RFU are now going to take a role in this review process.

It suggests the story is not going to end with the non-appointment now of Randall.

It's been an unholy mess from start to finish.

It raises serious questions about the governance within Munster and who was behind this decision.

It seems to have been largely driven by General Manager Ian Costow and by the CEO, Ian Flanagan, the appointment of Randall, that is.

Certainly...

for three of the professional games committee three former players with over 200 caps between them to all simultaneously step down just ahead of the appointment was clearly in protest at the governance of the pro and the way decisions are made at the heart within the hierarchy of monster rugby um

That was a bad look.

Michael Driscoll, Cillian Keane and Billy Holland all stepping down.

Really bad look for the province.

On top of Mike Prendergast announcing he was leaving.