Ulster’s Zac Ward Ruled Out, Tom Stewart Poised for Return

Ulster will be without wing Zac Ward for Friday’s United Rugby Championship fixture against Leinster, scheduled for 19:35 GMT, though Tom Stewart is expected to make his comeback. Ward, an Ireland Sevens player who joined Ulster on a trial following the Olympics, suffered a concussion during Ulster A’s match against Connacht Eagles last week. Additionally, Ben Moxham’s participation in Friday’s game is uncertain due to a hamstring injury sustained in the same fixture, and Jacob Stockdale is also sidelined with a hamstring issue after being forced off during Ireland’s victory over Fiji last weekend. Ireland hooker Stewart is anticipated to make his initial appearance of the current season, having recovered from an ankle injury. Centre Stewart Moore is also available for selection, alongside back row Nick Timoney, who has been released from the Ireland national squad. Furthermore, Ulster’s roster continues to miss Robert Baloucoune (calf), Jake Flannery (ankle), James Hume (knee), Callum Reid (knee), Ethan McIlroy (ankle), and Sean Reffell (ankle). The United Rugby Championship resumes following a four-week international hiatus. Prior to the break, Ulster experienced a defeat against Cardiff in their most recent match, whereas Leinster arrives in Belfast with a perfect record of six wins this season. While Leo Cullen’s team will be missing their Ireland international players, they saw Jack Conan, Jordan Larmour, and Jimmy O’Brien return to full training this week. The match between Ulster and Leinster will be broadcast on BBC Two NI, BBC iPlayer, and the BBC Sport website starting at 19:15 GMT.