Ulster's Andy Ward has been dropped to the bench ahead of Friday's Celtic League semi-final clash against Munster in Thomond Park.
The skipper, who is suffering from ankle problems, will be replaced by Tony McWhirter at number eight in a side that sees five changes from the team that defeated Biarritz.
The return of centre Shane Strewart however will be a boost for the side and in the shape of the experienced David Humphreys they have the perfect deputy as captain.
Adam Larkin will move into centre beside Stewart while Sheldon Coulter is set to replace Scott Young on the wing.
Meanwhile Munster officials have confirmed that the eagerly anticipated game is expected to be a sell-out.
Tickets are now only being sold from the ground itself and are limited to standing room only.
B Cunningham, J Topping, S Stewart, A Larkin, S Coulter, D Humphreys (c), N Doak, J Fitzpatrick, M Sexton, R Kempson, G Longwell, J Davidson, W Brosnihan, N McMillan, T McWhirter.
S Best, P Shields, M Blair, A Ward, K Campbell, S Young, J Cunningham.