Ulster have handed a first start to forward Lorcan McLoughlin for Sunday’s United Rugby Championship game against Zebre at Kingspan Stadium.
The 22-year-old is named at blindside flanker, joining Nick Timoney and David McCann in the back row for the meeting with the Italian outfit.
Former Ireland under-20 international McLoughlin made his debut for the Irish province as a replacement against the Lions last season – his only senior appearance.
Hooker Tom Stewart makes his first start of the season after overcoming his injury worries.
The Ulster starting team shows six changes in personnel from that which began the 52-24 win over Exeter in the Investec Champions Cup last weekend.
Mike Lowry moves to the right wing to replace the unavailable Werner Kok, with Zac Ward slotting into the left wing position.
John Cooney will make his 150th appearance for the club after being recalled to partner Jack Murphy in the half-backs, while second rows Kieran Treadwell and Harry Sheridan are the other forwards drafted in.
Ulster sit fourth in the URC table with four wins and five defeats from their nine matches, with Zebre 15th of 16, having won two from nine.
