Challenge Cup Final: Will Bilbao or Bust-Ulster return with the trophy?

In the beautiful Basque city of Bilbao, in the north of Spain and hosting a European rugby final for the second time, Ulster got their first taste of San Mames Stadium in the captain’s race on Thursday.

It’s a huge occasion, but the session was full of smiles and laughter rather than any visible nerves.

Ulster could be without key players such as Henderson and the injured trio of Stuart McCloskey, Jacob Stockdale and Rob Herring and will field just 23 players on Friday.

But there was unity as the larger group took part in the captain’s run, with players warming up with rugby balls as well as playing football.

There were no signs of lingering disappointment from Friday’s last-gasp defeat to Glasgow Warriors, which ultimately saw them drop out of the top eight in the URC.

“It’s a week that’s not hard to get up for,” said hooker Tom Stewart.

“As we’ve all said, being in a cup final doesn’t come around often. It’s a special moment for the lads.

“It’s been special to get behind Nick and see how he’s led the team and see the opportunity that lies ahead of the guys.”