Ulster coach Mark Anscombe has made nine changes for the top-of-the-table RaboDirect PRO12 clash against Scarlets on Sunday (4.00pm, Parc y Scarlets). Live on S4C.
Captain Johann Muller has returned from a thumb injury to captain the side in one of five changes to the pack, while Rory Best is fit enough to be named on the bench after overcoming neck problems.
After their exertions in recent weeks, Anscombe has decided to rest back row players Nick Williams and Chris Henry, in addition to backline stars Ruan Pienaar, Paddy Wallace and Jared Payne. Stephen Ferris, Lewis Stevenson and Declan Fitzpatrick are all sidelined through injury.
Callum Black and John Afoa are promoted to the starting team and are in the front row alongside South African born hooker Rob Herring. Neil McComb retains his place in the second row beside his skipper, with loose forwards Iain Henderson and Robbie Diack coming in for Nick Williams and Mike McComish. Roger Wilson will again start at number 8.
Ireland squad members Paddy Jackson, Luke Marshall, Darren Cave and Craig Gilroy all come straight back into the backline after impressing during the November Series. Jackson will partner Paul Marshall at half . . .
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