Bok prop Steven Kitshoff set for Ulster debut

Double Rugby World Cup-winning prop, Steven Kitshoff, stands on the brink of making his debut for the Irish province Ulster this weekend against Glasgow Warriors.

Head Coach Dan McFarland has named Kitshoff among the replacements for the upcoming clash against Warriors in Round 6 of the BKT United Rugby Championship.

Kitshoff, a seasoned campaigner on the international stage, could add a significant boost to Ulster’s forward pack. The South African prop, known for his scrummaging prowess and work rate around the park, is set to make his entrance off the bench at Scotstoun Stadium this Saturday after playing a crucial role for the Springboks during their most recent World Cup triumph in France.

Elsewhere Captain Iain Henderson will lead the side, supported by fellow Ireland international Kieran Treadwell in the second row. The front pack undergoes rotation, with Eric O’Sullivan at loosehead, Tom Stewart back at hooker, and Tom O’Toole returning to the tighthead position.

In the backline, the return of Luke Marshall adds experience at inside centre, alongside Ireland prospect James Hume at 13. An in-form Jacob Stockdale, with five tries in four matches, aims to continue his scoring form on the left wing. The back-row features Harry Sheridan, Reuben Crothers, and the Ulster Rugby Academy’s James McNabney, who makes his debut at eight.

The bench Ulster academy hooker Zac Solomon is also in line for his senior debut.

ULSTER: Will Addison, Rob Baloucoune, James Hume, Luke Marshall, Jacob Stockdale, Billy Burns, John Cooney; Eric O’Sullivan, Tom Stewart, Tom O’Toole, Kieran Treadwell, Iain Henderson (C), Harry Sheridan, Reuben Crothers, James McNabney.

REPLACEMENTS: Zac Solomon, Steven Kitshoff, Marty Moore, Alan O’Connor, Matty Rea, Dave Shanahan, Jake Flannery, Ben Moxham.