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Donnell eyes Irish call-up after Ulster move

Fresh Ulster recruit Ben Donnell is targeting a place in the Ireland national squad following his transfer to the Belfast-based side. The 26-year-old qualifies for national selection through his father, who was raised in Belfast, creating both a personal connection to the city and a competitive route to test rugby under head coach Andy Farrell.

Donnell, who previously earned age-grade honors for England at both under-18 and under-20 stages, arrived from Cardiff, where he lacked Welsh qualification despite consistent appearances in the United Rugby Championship. His club background also includes earlier stints representing London Irish and Gloucester.

While Cardiff ended the previous URC campaign in sixth position, three spots above ninth-placed Ulster, Donnell has set his sights on helping Richie Murphy's outfit secure a playoff spot among the top eight competitors. In addition to seeking postseason league action, the forward wants the squad to rebound from their loss to Montpellier in the Challenge Cup final by capturing European silverware this term.