Leinster make 11 changes as internationals return for visit of Bulls

Leinster have recalled several of their Ireland Six Nations winners for Friday's top-of-the-table clash with the Bulls in the BKT United Rugby Championship.

Leo Cullen has made 11 changes to his team following last week's bonus-point victory over Zebre Parma, with Joe McCarthy, Josh van der Flier, James Lowe and Robbie Henshaw among those restored to the starting XV.

Seven of their changes come in the pack, with Ross Molony the only forward to retain his place in the starting side, as Joe McCarthy comes in for Jason Jenkins at lock, with the South African dropping to the bench.

In the front row, Cian Healy is set for his 275th game for the province, as Rónan Kelleher and Michael Ala'alatoa pack down alongside him.

The back row is also fully changed, with Ryan Baird, Josh van der Flier and Jack Conan coming in, and Will Connors, Scott Penny and Max Deegan dropping out.

Luke McGrath retains his place at scrum-half and captains the side, with Harry Byrne replacing his older brother Ross at out-half.

Jamie Osborne is again in the centre, and partners Henshaw, who starts ahead of Liam Turner.

Jordan Larmour comes in for the injured Ciarán Frawley at full-back, while Lowe and Rob Russell are picked on the wings.

As well as the 10 returning Ireland internationals starting, Cullen has also included Dan Sheehan, Tadhg Furlong, Caelan Doris and Jamison Gibson-Park among his replacements.

Leinster: Jordan Larmour; Rob Russell, Robbie Henshaw, Jamie Osborne, James Lowe; Harry Byrne, Luke McGrath (capt); Cian Healy, Rónan Kelleher, Michael Ala'alatoa; Ross Molony, Joe McCarthy; Ryan Baird, Josh van der Flier, Jack Conan

Replacements: Dan Sheehan, Michael Milne, Tadhg Furlong, Jason Jenkins, Caelan Doris, Jamison Gibson-Park, Ross Byrne, Liam