Still at the top of his game, the power-packed Connacht and Ireland midfielder could yet have a novel positional switch in him
The Belfast-based province have endured a rollercoaster season and shoud reach the play-offs if they can topple mighty Leinster
South Africa loosehead prop Steven Kitshoff has played his last game for Ulster, after the United Rugby Championship club confirmed he picked up a season-ending knee injury against ASM Clermont Auvergne in the Challenge Cup.
A last-gasp penalty from John Cooney saw Ulster keep their United Rugby Championship play-off hopes on track with a 19-17 win over Cardiff after being behind for most of the game at the Kingspan Stadium.
Succession planning is at an advanced stage but certain players will be needed for a while longer yet.
It was the Sharks’ first league win since November as they climbed off the URC basement thanks to tries from flanker Phepsi Buthelezi, wing Eduan Keyter and hooker Bongi Mbonambi.
In the last decade or so, Ireland have moved the dial in people's perceptions, from plucky also-rans to elite, clinical professionals
Strong showings from skipper Jamie Ritchie and Ben Healy, the Edinburgh fly-half kicking 12 points, were pivotal for the visitors whose tries were scored by skipper Ben Vellacott, Pierre Schoeman and Robin Hislop.