Chris Henry has been included in Ulster's squad as a replacement for tonight’s Guinness PRO12 game against Cardiff Blues (7.35).
The 30-year-old flanker suffered a mini-stroke on the morning he was due to win his 17th Ireland cap against South Africa last November.
Henry underwent surgery to repair a defect in his heart wall and has steadily increased his involvement with the squad over the past two months.
Following a consultation with his surgeon in Dublin this week, he has been cleared for full participation.
Welcome back @chrishenry678 #STUFTUM #ShoulderToShoulder pic.twitter.com/kuxirKx1y9
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) March 27, 2015
Ulster head coach Neil Doak has welcomed Henry's return. "I am absolutely delighted that Chris will be involved in this evening’s match and his recovery gives everyone at Ulster Rugby a massive boost," said Doak.
"He is a very popular member of the squad and he has worked extremely hard since his surgery to get back to full fitness.
"While he was cleared to play earlier in the week, we wanted to wait until today to confirm his involvement, so that he could be completely focused on his return to play.
Fantastic news this lunchtime! @chrishenry678 is back in the Ulster squad! http://t.co/hk9WPGWTE5 pic.twitter.com/vfryeyXjoL
— Ulster Rugby (@UlsterRugby) March 27, 2015
"Wearing the Ulster jersey means a great deal to Chris and I know with what he has been through over the past four months that tonight will be extra special for him.
"I also know that the crowd will give him a huge reception if and when he takes to the pitch. For the coaches and players of Ulster Rugby, it is just great to have him back."
Ulster v (Cardiff Blues): (15-9): L Ludik; C Gilroy, D Cave (Captain), S Olding, M Allen, P Jackson, R Pienaar; (1-8): C Black, R Herring, W Herbst, D Tuohy, F Van der Merwe, I Henderson, C Ross, N Williams.
Replacements (16-23): J Andrew, A Warwick, B Ross, R Diack, C Henry, P Marshall, I Humphreys, R Scholes.
