Schmidt names side for Belfast trip

Leinster coach Joe Schmidt has named a strong side for tomorrow’s Magners League clash with Ulster at Ravenhill in Belfast (kick-off 4pm).

Isa Nacewa, who has scored 90 points so far this season, starts again at full-back in a backline which includes three Ireland internationals.

Brian O’Driscoll partners Fergus McFadden at centre, with Shane Horgan continuing on the wing. Former Bath utility back Shaun Berne links up with Isaac Boss, who signed from Ulster in the summer, at half-back.

Skipper Leo Cullen starts in the second row alongside Devin Toner with Sean O’Brien forming an exciting looking back-row unit with young flankers Dominic Ryan and Rhys Ruddock who represented Ireland at U20 level last season.

Clontarf’s AIL international club hooker Aaron Dundon, who has featured for Leinster’s British & Irish Cup team of late, is named on the bench for the first time alongside the likes of Ian Madigan, Jack McGrath and Andrew Conway.

Leinster: Isa Nacewa; Shane Horgan, Brian O’Driscoll, Fergus McFadden, Dave Kearney; Shaun Berne, Isaac Boss; Heinke van der Merwe, Jason Harris-Wright, Mike Ross; Leo Cullen (C), Devin Toner; Rhys Ruddock, Dominic Ryan, Sean O’Brien

Replacements: Aaron Dundon, Jack McGrath, Clint Newland, Ed O’Donoghue, Ben Marshall, Paul O’Donohoe, Ian Madigan, Andrew Conway