The Carlow man has been named in the Ireland squad for the clash with New Zealand next weekend and requires game time to get him back up to speed.
Among ten changes Jack Conan returns at number 8 while Isa Nacewa is the only back to keep his place.
Tiernan O'Halloran, who missed out last week through injury, returns to the starting line up for Connacht while in the pack, there are two changes with Dave Heffernan and Conor Carey coming into the front row.
Tonight leaders Ulster take on Munster at Kingspan stadium.
