Counties Manukau captain DJ Forbes has recovered from an eye injury and has been named in the team to play Manawatu in Palmerston North on Thursday night.
Forbes starts at openside flanker after missing two matches for the Steelers since suffering the injury in his side's victory against North Harbour a fortnight ago.
Prop Maka Tatafu will play his first start of the season.
Counties Manukau team to play Manawatu at FMG Stadium in Palmerston North on Thursday, kick-off 7.35pm is: Tim Nanai-Williams, Frank Halai, Ray Lee-Lo, Bundee Aki, Sherwin Stowers, Baden Kerr, August Pulu, Adam Cathcart, DJ Forbes (c), Jimmy Tupou, Daniel Adongo, Jamie Chipman, Maka Tatafu, Mo Schwalger, Simon Lemalu. Reserves: Suliasi Taufalele, Matt Talaese, Sikeli Nabou, Maama Vaipulu, David Bason, Ray Laulala, Tony Pulu.
