Ward to captain Ulster against under strength Leinster

Ulster will be odds-on favourites to dismantle what will probably be an under-strength Leinster in the penultimate round of the Celtic League at Ravenhill on Friday.

Coach Alan Solomons has decided to name a squad of backs, for the moment, for the game captain Andy Ward will make his 100th appearance for the province.

Ulster will be delighted to hear that Leinster’s Irish internationals Brian O’Driscoll (calf), Shane Horgan (ankle) and Girvan Dempsey (groin) are doubtful and Gordon D’Arcy is a definite non-starter for their Celtic League meeting.

Gary Ella has delayed the announcement of his side until these, and other, injuries have cleared up.

ULSTER (v Leinster):

Backs: T Bowe, K Campbell, B Cunningham, N Doak, T Howe, D Humphreys, A Larkin, S Mallon, S Stewart, J Topping, S Young, P Wallace;

Forwards: S Best, M Sexton, R Moore, G Longwell, R Frost, A Ward (capt), N Best, R Wilson.

Replacements: P Shields, R McCormack, M Mustchin, N McMillan.