Chiefs changes two as Lions arrive in town
In the forwards Maama Vaipulu gets the start at No.8, with Tom Sanders moving to blindside flank.
In the backs, Latu Vaeno gets his first start on the right wing, with Shaun Stevenson forced to sit out the game due to a minor shoulder complaint.
In the reserves, Japan captain Michael Leitch is expected to make his highly anticipated return to Super Rugby, while former Warrior Glen Fisiiahi looks set to earn his first Super Rugby cap from the bench.
Not considered for selection this week, due to injuries, include Nepo Laulala, Mitchell Karpik, Andrew Horrell, Hika Elliot, Toni Pulu, Augustine Pulu, Dominic Bird, Sam McNicol, Shaun Stevenson and Tevita Koloamatangi.
Fresh off a confidence-building 27-21 win over the Crusaders in Christchurch last Saturday, the Chiefs are hoping to go two-from-two when they take on the South African side.
The earlier kick-off time of 17.15 is a blessing for the Chiefs, who depart on Sunday afternoon for a challenging two-week international jaunt.
The team travels firstly to Port Elizabeth to play the Kings, then onto Argentina to take on newcomers the Jaguares in Buenos Aires.
Date: Saturday, March 5
Venue: FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton
Kick-off: 17.15 (06.15 SA time; 04.15 GMT)
Referee: Andrew Lees (Australia)
Assistant referees: Nick Brian (New Zealand), Angus Mabey (New Zealand)
TMO: Aaron Paterson (New Zealand)