Leinster star Heaslip relishing facing up to old friend Ferris

Jamie Heaslip might have come up against Ulster sides in every season of his professional career but he’s only met Stephen Ferris on the field of play twice.

But, with the two set to clash on Friday night in the RaboDirect Pro12, Heaslip cannot wait to go up against his Irish colleague.

“We were laughing during the Six Nations that, whether it’s due to injuries or rotation, we haven’t actually played against each other in years,” he said. “I’d love the chance to go up against him this week and the two of us have a rattle off each other, and have a laugh afterwards.