Julian Savea will play his first game of the year when Moana Pasifika take on the Brumbies at Navigation Homes Stadium, Pukekohe on Saturday afternoon.
Savea who is third all-time for tries scored in Super Rugby, will start at inside centre, pairing up with Pepesana Patafilo to form a powerful midfield combo.
Tasman Mako front-rower Monu Moli will also make his Super Rugby Pacific debut off the bench.
The 22-year-old captained the Marlborough Boys College 1st XV and played for the Crusaders and New Zealand Under 20s sides. Moli went through the Tasman Academy and made his debut for the Mako in 2023.
He joins older brother Samiuela who along with Sione Mafile’o returns to the front row.
Sione Havili Talitui will captain this week’s team and earns a start at openside flanker.
Head coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga said: “We’ve taken the learnings from last week and are looking to improve on that against the Brumbies, particularly in staying disciplined and putting up a complete performance. We welcome some experience to the starting lineup, while also giving some of our young talent their opportunity.
“The Brumbies are a quality team and we’re looking forward to the challenge they will provide.”
Tom Savage and Michael Curry link up in the locking department.
Moana Pasifika also welcomes back the prowess of Jonathan Taumateine at halfback, with Patrick Pellegrini starting outside him.
The backline has also been shuffled with Kyren Taumoefolau moving to left wing and Fine Inisi starting on the right. Counties Manukau star Tevita Ofa will get his first start at fullback, while Ola Tauelangi will bring impact off the bench.
Unavailable due to injury: James Lay (neck), Lotu Inisi (hamstring), Neria Fomai (knee/season), Solomon Alaimalo (foot), Tito Tuipulotu (knee).
ENDS
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