Meanwhile, Finlay Bealham returns from a knee injury to make his 100th appearance for Connacht.

It’s an interpro, it’s an International trial and, for the respective coaches, it is above all else an important Guinness PRO14 game.

Connacht forwards coach Jimmy Duffy says new Irish international Bundee Aki is ready to return to action on the Challenge Cup trail against Brive this weekend.

Connacht coach Kieran Keane says a resurgent Zebre will pose a huge threat in Parma this afternoon as his side aim to bounce back to winning ways before refocusing next week to the European Challenge Cup campaign.

Connacht coach Kieran Keane says recent Ireland debutant Bundee Aki could be held in reserve over the coming weeks despite an impressive November campaign for Joe Schmidt’s side.

Connacht's five-match winning run came to an end as Cardiff Blues triumphed 36-30 at Arms Park.