Paddy Jackson returns to training and will be back before April

Paddy Jackson looks set to make his return for Ulster in the club's PRO12 match against Cardiff Blues later in the month.

The young outhalf has been struggling with an elbow injury which has ruled him out since January, not only for the province but also leaving him out of contention for the Irish Six Nations squad.

The province though have said that he will return to training on Tuesday having received the green light from a specialist on Monday afternoon.

Ulster rugby said that “Paddy saw a specialist this afternoon who reviewed the progress that the Ulster outhalf has made since dislocating his elbow against Toulon in January.

“Following the positive consultation, Paddy will return to appropriate training tomorrow with a view to being back in action after the PRO12 break.”

After Sunday's game against Newport Gwen Dragons Ulster have a three week break before playing Cardiff Blues on Friday 27th March at Kingspan Stadium.

Meanwhile Robbie Diack has recovered from the back injury that has kept him out of rugby for the past fortnight and he will be available for that Guinness PRO12 match against Dragons.

Prop, Wiehahn Herbst will also be available for that fixture having suffered a hamstring complaint during last Friday night’s win over Scarlets.

Tim Boys suffered a tendon injury to a toe in his left foot in training last week. He underwent surgery on Wednesday and will be out for the rest of the season. Team Manager Bryn Cunningham said:

“It is disappointing for both the province and the individual when a player is brought in as cover and sustains an injury that sidelines him for the duration of his short term contract.

"For this to happen to both Ronald Raaymakers, earlier in the season, and now Tim is exceptionally unfortunate."