The 35-year-old, in his last Super Rugby season, is poised to set a new appearance record by going one ahead of former Wallaby Nathan Sharpe. It will be Mealamu's 163rd Super Rugby match and his first of the year after his late lead-in on All Blacks' orders, and it might tip the balance in the Blues achieving their first win of the season.
"Keven is an inspirational character both on and off the field," said coach John Kirwan. "He exemplifies all of the qualities that we strive for at the Blues in desire, hard work, resilience, loyalty and integrity.
"He will bring a real lift to the team and I am sure the boys will want him to celebrate his milestone with a good performance."
Mealamu has been named alongside fellow All Black Charlie Faumuina and Ofa Tu'ungafasi, who gets his first start of the season. All Black Tony Woodcock is being rested and has not been included in the match day squad.
A victory over the Johannesburg-based Lions, also winless, is a non-negotiable for the Blues, who will also want to celebrate Jerome Kaino's 100th game for the Blues, a milestone he achieved in the defeat to the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein.
So, while emotions might be running high for the Blues, they must also play with a more discipline and a lot more accuracy. Frank Halai's return from a shoulder operation in the off season will bolster their fire power out wide, with Melani Nanai retaining his place on the wing after making his debut at Free State Stadium last weekend.
Steven Luatua is back to his regular starting spot in the loose forwards with captain Kaino and Luke Braid.
All Black Charles Piutau remains at centre after his excellent performance last weekend and is paired in the midfield by Francis Saili.
The Blues team to play the Lions at QBE Stadium is: Lolagi Visinia, Frank Halai, Charles Piutau, Francis Saili, Melani Nanai, Ihaia West, Jimmy Cowan, Jerome Kaino (c), Luke Braid, Steven Luatua, Patrick Tuipulotu, Josh Bekhuis, Charlie Faumuina, Keven Mealamu, Ofa Tu'ungafasi. Reserves: James Parsons, Sam Prattley, Angus Ta'avao, Hayden Triggs, Brendon O'Connor, Jamison Gibson-Park, Simon Hickey, Hamish Northcott.
