The selection of loose forward Shannon Frizell is the feature of the Tasman Mako side that has been named to face Otago in Dunedin on Friday night.
After appearing in the pre-season game against Canterbury, Shannon injured his hamstring in the final training session before the NPC opener against North Harbour.
The 32-year-old, who also suffered a hamstring injury before the start of his last club season in Japan, missed the first six NPC games but will return at No.8 against Otago with Tayne Hemopo dropping out of the 23.
The 33-test All Black will bring some real physicality to the pack.
There are two changes in the backline with Cooper Grant replacing an unavailable William Havili at first five and Macca Springer after making his return from a shoulder injury via the bench last week.
Reserve halfback Wil Thornalley dislocated his shoulder in the final minute against Wellington and has been replaced by Mason Lund.
Marlborough midfield back Jake Pacey has come onto the bench.
The team is: 1-Tom Heywood , 2-Eli Odenryn, 3-Ryan Coxon, 4-Jake Frost, 5-Antonio Shalfoon, 6-Lopeti Faifua, 7-Johnny Lee©, 8-Shannon Frizell, 9-Mitchell Drummond, 10-Cooper Grant, 11-Macca Springer, 12-David Havili, 13-Cooper Roberts, 14-Kyren Taumoefolau, 15-Maloni Kunawave. Reserves: 16-Richie Asiata, Monu Moli, 18-Sione Mafi, 19-Hunter Leppien, 20-Rory Scott, 21-Mason Lund, 22-Jake Pacey, 23-Nic Sauira.
