Franklin, who made his debut in 2014 has been a regular in the middle row over the last few seasons.
Elsewhere in the forwards, hooker Liam Coltman returns and will accompany Daniel Lienert-Brown and Siate Tokolahi in the front row of the starting XV for the first time on the three-week tour.
Elliot Dixon will co-captain the side from No 8.
In the backs, Aaron Smith gets well-earned break and is on the bench for the first time this season, giving Kayne Hammington his first start, while Tevita Li comes in for the suspended Waisake Naholo.
After a nine-game break with a hamstring injury All Black first five Lima Sopoaga returns to the bench.
Highlanders to play Force 5.45pm (9.45pm NZT), Saturday, nib Stadium, Perth
Daniel Lienert-Brown, Liam Coltman, Siate Tokolahi, Alex Ainley, Tom Franklin, Gareth Evans, Dillon Hunt, Elliot Dixon (cc), Kayne Hammington, Marty Banks, Tevita Li, Richard Buckman, Malakai Fekitoa, Patrick Osborne, Matt Faddes. Reserves: Ash Dixon (cc), Aki Seiuli, Guy Millar, Joe Wheeler, Jackson Hemopo, Aaron Smith, Lima Sopoaga, Rob Thompson.