Head coach Richie Murphy experiments heavily as Ulster travel to Thomond Park for a pivotal derby. Injury woes force three academy players into senior action, with flankers James McKillop and Tom Brigg and winger Aitzol Arenzana-King starting. Prop Bryan O'Connor steps in at loose-head, while scrum-half Ethan McIlroy leads a reshuffled midfield against a rival chasing play-off form.

Facing a raft of injuries and prepping for next week's Challenge Cup semi-final against Exeter, Murphy implements 15 changes from last week's defeat. Without key props, Ulster recall Eric O'Sullivan and promote Bryan O'Connor, while debutants fill back-row and second-row roles. Munster counter with one adjustment, fielding experienced internationals to secure last week's 45-15 win over Benetton.

Ulster sit fifth in the URC table, one point ahead of Munster in the play-off race. Full-back Michael Lowry captains a familiar mix of returning stars and new faces against a confident Munster side. Prop Tom McAllister and centre Jonny Scott join the bench. Murphy relies on this blend of youth and experience to close the gap on rivals. Munster hold a superior points difference entering the final quarter of the season.