So now we know.
Joe Schmidt’s first selection decision of the 2016 Six Nations is now apparent after Paddy Jackson was released to Ulster for tomorrow’s game with Newport Gwent Dragons.
The outhalf had been widely tipped to oust Ian Madigan for the role as Johnny Sexton’s Ireland deputy against Wales.
Jackson has been in tremendous form for Ulster this season and has, for the most part, taken over the kicking duties from Ruan Pienaar.
By releasing Jackson for provincial duty, Schmidt has shown his hand ahead of Friday’s official team announcement. Madigan is now expected to start on the bench against Wales.
Ahead of the championsip, at the Six Nations launch, Schmidt had cautioned that Madigan’s move to Bordeaux, this summer, would mean he could not be guaranteed Irish selection.
Elsewhere, winger Jacob Stockdale has been pulled from Ireland U20 duty so he can start in the Ulster No.11 jersey. Craig Gilroy takes up the other wing spot.
Irish internationals Rob Herring, Robbie Diack, Stuart Olding and Darren Cave are all included in the starting XV.
ULSTER (team to play Dragons)
L Ludik;Â C Gilroy, D Cave, S Olding, J Stockdale; I Humphreys, R Pienaar;Â C Black, R Herring (capt), R Lutton, A O’Connor, P Browne, R Diack, S Reidy, R Wilson.
Replacements: J Andrew, K McCall, B Ross, C Ross, N Williams, P Marshall, P Jackson, R Scholes.
