Prop Charlie Faumuina returns after a two-month absence with a calf injury that cost him any chance of making his All Blacks debut and will start in place of Tevita Mailau. But Rene Ranger, who was due to play his 50th game for the Blues, is out with a groin injury and his place on the left wing will be taken by Hadleigh Parkes.
Steven Luatua shifts to lock in place of Andrew Van de Heijden, who moves to the bench, while Chris Lowrey slots in on the blindside flank.
The Blues have had a wretched season with only three wins in their 15 games and sit 13th on the table but they go into the match on the back of a 32-9 defeat of the Force last weekend.
Lam is on the shortlist to remain as coach in 2013 and will have his interview on Friday before flying out to Canberra.
Blues side to play the Brumbies in Canberra on Saturday (5.30pm): Charles Piutau, Lachie Munro, Francis Saili, Ma'a Nonu, Hadleigh Parkes, Michael Hobbs, Piri Weepu, Luke Braid, Daniel Braid, Chris Lowrey, Steven Luatua, Liaki Moli, Charlie Faumuina, Keven Mealamu (c), Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Tom McCartney, Tevita Mailau, Andrew Van der Heijden, Peter Saili, Alby Mathewson, Orene Ai'i, Sherwin Stowers.
