URC: Henderson returns for Ulster in vital Munster clash

Richie Murphy has named his Ulster side ahead of a crucial interprovincial battle with Munster at Thomond Park on Friday night.

Captain Iain Henderson returns from injury to reinforce the second row, partnering Cormac Izuchukwu. Rob Baloucoune is back on the wing after recovering from the injury sustained against the DHL Stormers, while Michael Lowry has completed his return-to-play protocols after a concussion and starts at fullback.

In the front row, Andrew Warwick and Scott Wilson pack down either side of hooker Rob Herring. In the back row, Matty Rea is joined by Nick Timoney at openside and James McNabney at number eight.

Nathan Doak and Jack Murphy continue their half-back partnership, with Jude Postlethwaite and Stuart McCloskey combining in midfield. Jacob Stockdale lines up on the left wing, with Baloucoune on the right and Lowry at 15 to round out the back three.

Murphy has gone with a 5:3 split on the bench, with Tom Stewart, Callum Reid, Tom O’Toole, Alan O’Connor and David McCann covering the forwards. The backline replacements are Dave Shanahan, Stewart Moore and Werner Kok.

Ulster side to face Munster at Thomond Park, Friday May 9 (7.35pm)

1-8: Andrew Warwick, Rob Herring, Scott Wilson, Iain Henderson (C), Cormac Izuchukwu, Matty Rea, Nick Timoney, James McNabney

9-15: Nathan Doak, Jack Murphy, Jacob Stockdale, Stuart McCloskey, Jude Postlethwaite, Rob Baloucoune, Michael Lowry

Replacements: Tom Stewart, Callum Reid, Tom O’Toole, Alan O’Connor, David McCann, Dave Shanahan, Stewart Moore, Werner Kok