Stephen Ferris: Emerging Ireland tour of South Africa is unnecessarily disruptive to Ulster's URC schedule

Emerging Ireland's tour of South Africa is unnecessarily disruptive to Ulster's URC schedule. Stephen Ferris believes there was a lack of communication between the national side and the provinces. Robert Baloucoune is one of only four players who have already been capped by the senior side. The rest are players required by their provinces and not considered to be on the level. Dan McFarland's own side will be in South African for games against the Lions and Sharks immediately after Emerging Ireland’s trip. He is in a testing position as his team will also be there.

Stephen Ferris criticises the tour of South Africa. He thinks it's unnecessary for Ulster's rugby schedule. Ferri sees the URC season as dominated by Irish and South African sides. Leinster are favourites to win the league. The overall competitiveness of the competition has improved in the last 12 months. The Premiership is still more competitive but the RRC is getting better. Stormers will be better this season. Sharks will also be a better team. They played their best rugby in last year's semi-finals and final. It's unlikely they'll repeat that this year. i wouldn't bet against Leinsster.