“There’s a lot of experience there and it’s good to have that and keep the young guys on their toes.”
Influential midfielder Hamish Northcott returned last week after injuring his leg in week one, while halfback Bryn Wilson and front rower Flyn Yates also returned.
Hurricanes halfback Jamie Booth, who broke his leg playing for Manawatū last year, has recovered and will play 40 minutes.
Another big boost is loosie Dallas Tatana, who is back from Japan.
Prop Tony Walker-Leawere is back after a week off and bustling loose forward Joe Tako also returned last week.
Hooker Ben Strang will miss this week with a knee complaint and lock Matt Masoe is also injured.