The Hurricanes will be without new All Black Ruben Love when Super Rugby Pacific kicks off in 2025 due to an ankle injury.
United Rugby Championship leaders Leinster made it seven wins from seven as a late try from James Culhane allowed them to defeat Ulster 27-20.
Ulster head coach Richie Murphy has named his team for the BKT United Rugby Championship Round 6 match against Cardiff on Saturday - with no sign of hooker Rob Herring in the squad.
Ulster line-up doesn't bode well for Ireland's burgeoning injury crisis.
The Hurricanes are still months away from starting preseason training but are already facing a playmaker crisis thanks to an ACL injury befalling starting No. 10 Brett Cameron.
Ulster fell to a 35-22 loss to Lions in Johannesburg but could take some encouragement from a point on the road in the United Rugby Championship.
A dramatic late try with the clock well in the red from David Shanahan ensured that Ulster opened their United Rugby Championship season with a 20-19 win over champions Glasgow Warriors.
Duffy previously assisted Murphy as part of the Ireland U20s management and he has now taken up the offer to switch from Perth to Belfast to rekindle their working relationship.
Ulster have confirmed the signing of Irish-qualified fly-half Aidan Morgan from the Hurricanes on a two-year deal.
