Japan prop Hiroshi Yamashita is set to make his Chiefs debut in their Super Rugby opener against the Crusaders at AMI Stadium on Saturday.
The 49-Test prop was brought in as injury cover and has been rushed into the starting XV alongside Paulisi Manu and Rhys Marshall in the front row.
Taleni Seu is also set to make his debut after being named on the blindside along with Sam Cane and Canterbury No.8 Tom Sanders who is also making his debut.
Aaron Cruden has been named at first five-eighth, marking his return from injury while Shaun Stevenson is the other new recruit on the wing.
"It's been a long build-up and we're all excited that the competitions finally about to start," coach Dave Rennie said.
"History tells us that Chiefs and Crusaders clashes are physical and high paced encounters and I'm sure this weekend will be no different."
Chiefs: 1. Pauliasi Manu, 2. Rhys Marshall, 3. Hiroshi Yamashita, 4. Michael Allardice, 5. Brodie Retallick, 6. Taleni Seu, 7. Sam Cane, 8. Tom Sanders,9. Tawera Kerr-Barlow, 10. Aaron Cruden, 11. James Lowe, 12. Charlie Ngatai, 13. Seta Tamanivalu, 14. Shaun Stevenson, 15. Damian McKenzie
Reserves: 16. Nathan Harris, 17. Mitchell Graham, 18. Siate Tokolahi, 19. Maama Vaipulu, 20. Johan Bardoul, 21. Brad Weber, 22. Anton Lienert-Brown, 23. Latu Vaeno
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