Injuries have forced Pat Lam to name a 22-man squad for Connacht's Challenge Cup meeting with Newcastle on Sunday.

Out-half Shane O'Leary is handed a first start for the province, with Craig Ronaldson returning to the centre.

Academy prop Conan O'Donnell wins a first start in a front row that also accomodates Rodney Ah You.

Danny Qualter and Andrew Browne form a new second row, with Eoghan Masterson in at openside.