Ward brothers savouring Irish rugby rise together

The past couple of years have been hugely eventful in the rugby journeys of Ward brothers Zac and Bryn.

Two years ago, Zac starred on sport's biggest stage, helping the Ireland Sevens team reach the quarter-finals of the Paris Olympics.

Within a few weeks, he joined Ulster's senior squad on a trial basis. He made his debut in December 2024 and has established himself as the first-choice left winger under head coach Richie Murphy.

He now has younger brother Bryn for company in the Ulster set-up. The 21-year-old has caught the eye since making his Ulster debut in October, his powerful performances in the back row prompting Ireland head coach Andy Farrell to bring him into the Ireland Six Nations squad.

In addition to lining up for Ulster together, the Wards - the sons of former Ulster and Ireland flanker Andy Ward - both represented Ireland in the XV side's loss to England A earlier this month.

"I love it, it is cool," Zac Ward told the Ireland Rugby Social when asked what is like to play for the same side as his brother.

"Growing up, playing mini-rugby and trying not to let Bryn get involved because there is five and a half years between us.

"It is really cool. It was nice getting to play a first game [together] this year, and I think we've played every game since that game which is pretty awesome."

Bryn admits he is still processing his rise after a "crazy few months".

Elevated unexpected into the Ulster starting side against the Lions in October after Juarno Augustus failed a late fitness test, Ward has not looked out of place in the senior game.

Initially named a training panellist in Farrell's Six Nations squad, Ward rejoined the panel before Ireland's win over Italy. Having been put up for media duties that week, rumours swirled of a Test debut, but Farrell chose to keep him in reserve.

"I was just trying to play for Ulster and being in an Irish camp is a bit crazy," he said.

"I am just trying to learn as much as I can, I would love to get a game, so I am just trying to keep my head down.

"They are all great lads, I couldn't name a bad lad in there. It is very daunting and the coaches are very daunting; you see them on TV and Andy Farrell is a lot taller than you think as well!"

The Wards find themselves in the mix for international caps after a series of impressive performances for Ulster.

After a hugely disappointing 2024-25 season, Ulster sit fourth in the United Rugby Championship table and have reached the Challenge Cup knockout rounds.

If Ulster are to end their long quest for a trophy, the Wards will be expected to play key roles. Zac has already scored five tries this season while Bryn ably showcased his explosive potential with a player-of-the-match display against Munster in early January.

And having been part of Ulster's struggles last season, Zac is pleased to see the province "going in the right direction".

"If we fine-tune a couple things. I think we've got a really good chance [of winning a trophy] this year," said the 27-year-old.

"A lot of people were disappointed that we dropped down into the Challenge Cup, but I think it's probably been for the best for us because we've been able to rebuild."

"When we played Bulls at home and they had a good team out, and we were like this is remarkably different than last year. I t's just a real good buzz even around training, everyone is on the same page and it is really enjoyable."