Thomson comes back into the side after missing the last match due to a bruised knee, replacing Vaea Fifita, whose athletic talents will be utilized off the reserves bench during the crucial New Zealand Conference derby match.

Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd said his selections reflected the strong performance against the Rebels in Melbourne last week where his side picked up five valuable competition points.

“We are building a lot of competition in the squad through performance and there were some tough calls when it came to selection, but this group got the job done away from home last week and there weren’t any compelling reasons to make too many changes.”

Boyd has also been able to strengthen his bench considerably with a number of players returning from minor injuries.

Openside Callum Gibbins is back after a week off due to a sore Achilles, halfback Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi has recovered from a swollen knee, and utility back James Marshall is over the concussion that kept him out of the last two matches.

Willis Halaholo edges out Ngani Laumape as the final backs reserve, while loose head prop Loni Uhila gets an opportunity with Ben May out with a stiff neck.

Boyd said there was no doubt the Chiefs represented a significant step up for the squad

“I won’t have to say a lot this week. The team knows this is a big match and the Chiefs form and team sheet speak for themselves. They are a well-coached side that poses threats across the park. We will have to be at our best at both ends of the park if we want to compete.”

Saturday’s match will also provide an opportunity for the teams and fans at Westpac Stadium to commemorate ANZAC Day.

Lieutenant Colonel Ron Turner QSM, the president of the Returner and Services Association will be on hand to lead the ceremony and will read the Ode of Remembrance.

Wellington Brass Band bugler Kieran Smith will play The Last Post with the Rouse and Reveille immediately before kickoff.

In addition, Hurricanes captain Dane Coles will be visiting the HMNZS Wellington on Friday afternoon to swap gifts with the ship’s Commanding Officer and meet the crew.

The HMNZS Wellington, which will be berthed in Wellington Harbour, is celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Royal New Zealand Navy.

Hurricanes: Jason Woodward, Cory Jane, Matt Proctor, Vince Aso, Julian Savea, Beauden Barrett, TJ Perenara (vc), Victor Vito, Ardie Savea, Brad Shields, Michael Fatialofa, Blade Thomson, Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, Dane Coles (c), Reg Goodes. Reserves: Motu Matu’u, Chris Eves, Loni Uhila, Vaea Fifita, Callum Gibbins, Te Toiroa Tahurirorangi, Willis Halaholo, James Marsh