Friday Rugby News Roundup: Waratahs Welcome Back Veterans As Ulster Strengthen Squad

The rugby transfer market continues to produce plenty of movement across the southern and northern hemispheres, with experienced internationals returning to familiar surroundings, promising young talent changing clubs and a French side securing its future in the professional game.

From Super Rugby Pacific to the United Rugby Championship and France’s Pro D2, here are some of the biggest stories making headlines.

Bernard Foley And Nick Phipps Return To The Waratahs

The NSW Waratahs have confirmed two major additions to their plans for the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season, with veteran Wallabies half-backs Bernard Foley and Nick Phipps set to return to the club.

Both players have enjoyed decorated careers in Australian rugby and their experience could prove invaluable as the Waratahs look to build a competitive squad for the 2027 campaign.

Bernard Foley Returns

Foley is one of the most recognisable names in Australian rugby.

The experienced fly-half has previously played a huge role for the Waratahs and Wallabies, becoming renowned for his composure, tactical kicking and ability to control matches.

His return provides the Waratahs with an experienced playmaker capable of guiding younger players around him.

Nick Phipps Also Comes Back

Foley will be joined by fellow veteran Nick Phipps, bringing another experienced option to the Waratahs’ half-back department.

Phipps has spent much of his career operating at the highest level of Australian rugby and his return gives the Waratahs another player with extensive knowledge of Super Rugby.

The reunion of Foley and Phipps could prove particularly interesting given their previous experience playing together.

Blues Sign Highlanders Halfback Nic Shearer

The Blues have also made a move for the future by securing the services of young Highlanders halfback Nic Shearer for the 2027 season.

The signing represents an investment in the next generation of New Zealand talent.

Shearer will have the opportunity to develop within another highly competitive Super Rugby environment and will be hoping to establish himself as an important part of the Blues’ future.

With experienced players eventually moving on, developing talented young halfbacks will be crucial for maintaining squad depth.

Ulster Complete Double Signing

There has also been movement in the United Rugby Championship, with Ulster strengthening their squad through two new additions.

The province have completed deals for Daniel Hawkshaw and Martin Moloney ahead of the upcoming season.

Hawkshaw returns to Ulster, providing additional experience and familiarity within the squad, while Moloney adds further strength to the back row.

The double signing highlights Ulster’s intention to build greater depth across their squad ahead of another demanding URC campaign.

Nice Secure Pro D2 Future

In France, Nice Rugby, also known as Nissa Rugby, have successfully avoided administrative relegation and secured their place in the Pro D2.

The club was required to provide significant financial guarantees to satisfy the relevant authorities.

Nice ultimately deposited €4.6 million in financial guarantees, allowing the club to retain its place in France’s second tier.

The decision provides important stability for the club as it looks towards the next season.

A Busy Transfer Market

These latest moves demonstrate the different approaches being taken by clubs across the rugby world.

The Waratahs are bringing proven experience back into their squad, while the Blues are investing in emerging New Zealand talent.

Ulster are strengthening their depth ahead of another competitive URC campaign, while Nice’s financial guarantees ensure their immediate future in professional French rugby remains secure.

With the 2027 season already beginning to take shape, more significant transfers and squad announcements are expected over the coming months.

Final Thoughts

Friday’s rugby news provides plenty for supporters to keep an eye on.

Bernard Foley and Nick Phipps are heading back to the Waratahs, Nic Shearer will join the Blues, Ulster have added Daniel Hawkshaw and Martin Moloney, and Nice Rugby have secured their place in Pro D2 after meeting the required financial guarantees.

The 2027 season may still be some way away, but clubs across the major competitions are already laying the foundations for what promises to be another fascinating year of professional rugby.