Injuries Sideline Ulster Backs Ludik And Cave

There is some mixed news on the injury front ahead of Ulster’s opening European Champions Cup encounter with Bordeaux Begles on Sunday.

Kingspan Player of the Month for September, Louis Ludik, fractured his cheekbone during the GUINNESS PRO12 derby match against Connacht last Friday. The versatile back will be out of action for four to six weeks.

Meanwhile, Darren Cave, who partnered Ludik in the centre in Galway, has been ruled out for three to four weeks after sustaining a calf tear in the same game.

But there is positive news for Charles Piutau, Luke Marshall, Andrew Trimble, Stuart Olding and Franco van der Merwe, who are expected to return to face Bordeaux after missing the defeat to Connacht.

Returning lock Dan Tuohy played for Ulster ‘A’ against Leinster ‘A’ at Donnybrook on Saturday and is available for selection this weekend.