Ulster quartet doubts for Zebre as Snyman ruled out

Four players have emerged as doubts for Ulster's Challenge Cup opener against Zebre in Parma on Saturday.

Prop Eduardo Bell, who did not feature in Saturday's United Rugby Championship draw with Munster, may not be risked after picking up a hamstring injury in training.

Second row Ben Donnell, full-back Ethan McIlroy and hooker Tom Stewart all sustained unspecified knocks in the Munster game.

Eli Snyman, who started alongside Donnell at lock on Saturday, is ruled out with a concussion.

On a more positive note, full-back Michael Lowry has returned to full team training after suffering a concussion in the opening URC loss to Edinburgh on 25 September.

After a defeat and two draws in the URC, Ulster are hunting a first win of the season against Zebre before travelling to South Africa for league games against the Bulls and Stormers.