Botha to debut for Ulster

South African tighthead prop BJ Botha will make his debut for Ulster against the Llanelli Scarlets in the first match of the Magners League at Ravenhill on Friday, kick-off at 7.30pm.

Matt Williams was enthusiastic about the new season: "We're ready for the Scarlets. I have mentioned this week in the media that we have had selection issues in that we have a great squad to choose from - that is something I am really pleased about.

"The Scarlets are a good side and have recruited well over the summer, they will be keen to lay down the law at Ravenhill as we meet them again in the Heineken Cup in December".

Williams has decided to select Andrew Trimble on the wing, making room for former Ireland Under-20 World Cup winner Darren Cave to make his presence felt at outside centre.

ULSTER (v Llanelli Scarlets): Clinton Schifcofske; Andrew Trimble, Darren Cave, Rob Dewey, Timoci Nagusa; Paddy Wallace, lsaac Boss; Justin Fitzpatrick, Rory Best (capt), BJ Botha, Carlo Del Fava, Ed O’Donoghue, Matt McCullough, Kieron Dawson, Robbie Diack.

Replacements: Nigel Brady, Tom Court, Ryan Caldwell, David Pollock, Cillian Willis, Niall O'Connor, Bryn Cunningham.