Adam Jones starts in the second row, as he replaces team mate Ian Nimmo who is on the bench.
Along with Jones, Jevon Groves replaces, last week’s captain, Lewis Evans who is out with a groin injury. Andy Tuilagi who was named as the Amlin Challenge Cup’s Man of the Match last weekend keeps his place and remains in the centre. The backs are unchanged and Lewis Robling also keeps his place at number 10.
Ulster have made four personnel changes for the clash against Dragons. Paul Marshall, Craig Gilroy and Lewis Stevenson have been elevated to the starting XV, while Declan Fitzpatrick will go straight into the team on his return from a knee injury. Roger Wilson could make his first appearance for Ulster since returning to the club after being selected on the bench.
Marshall’s inclusion at scrumhalf will see Ruan Pienaar move to flyhalf in place of Paddy Jackson who is among the replacements. Tommy Bowe will line up at fullback, with Jared Payne earning a well earned rest after playing in every minute of Ulster’s campaign to date. Gilroy is named on the left wing, with Andrew Trimble switching to the right flank, while Paddy Wallace and Darren Cave continue their impressive centre partnership.
Â
Fitzpatrick replaces All Black John Afoa at tighthead prop and will join Rory Best and Tom Court in the front row. Lewis Stevenson has replaced the injured Johann Muller in the second row alongside Dan Tuohy. The back row remains unchanged from the one that lined out against Glasgow last week, although Chris Henry will have the added responsibility of captaining the side in Muller’s absence.
