Mark McCall has awarded a first start to former Bangor Grammar dual international Paul McKenzie on the left wing against Leinster at Ravenhill on Saturday night. Paul has made an impressive start to his Ulster career, making an encouraging cameo role against the Borders and high-class performances for Ulster A.

Flyer McKenzie, who came through the Ulster Academy system and was awarded a development contract at the start of the season, has represented Ulster and Ireland at all under-age levels. The talented North Down man also represented Ireland schools at cricket, and was thrilled to be named in the line-up.

“I am obviously delighted. It is a great opportunity for me coming into the side. I'll have a few nerves as it is a big game because of the profile of the opposition. Training has gone really well this week and as a team we all feel well prepared and are really up for it.”

After starring for Ireland at out half against the Pacific Islands on Sunday, Paddy Wallace reverts back to his usual inside centre role, and is joined by fellow Irish Autumn Internationals Isaac Boss, Bryan Young, Rory Best, Simon Best and Neil Best in the starting line-up. Captain Simon Best leads the side for the first time since he suffered a broken leg against Llanelli in the penultimate game of the 2005/06 season.

Stephen Ferris takes his place on the bench, with Kieron Dawson starting at open side. Australian international Mark Barthomeleusz takes the other wing spot as Ulster begin an important month with back-to-back Heineken cup matches with London Irish and a Boxing Day clash with Connacht.

Tommy Bowe and Andrew Trimble have not been considered for this fixture due to injury.

ULSTER: 15 - Bryn Cunningham; 14 - Mark Bartholomeusz; 13 - Paul Steinmetz; 12 - Paddy Wallace; 11 - Paul McKenzie; 10 - David Humphreys; 9 - Isaac Boss; 1 - Bryan Young; 2 - Rory Best; 3 - Simon Best (Captain); 4 - Justin Harrison; 5 - Matt McCullough; 6 - Neil Best; 7 - Kieron Dawson; 8 - Roger Wilson

Replacements: 16 - Paul Shields; 17 - Justin Fitzpatrick; 18 - Tim Barker; 19 - Stephen Ferris; 20 - Kieran Campbell; 21 - Kevin Maggs ; 22 - Scott Young