The Chiefs are expecting an intense introduction to the new Super 14 rugby season when they face defending champions the Crusaders in Christchurch on Saturday, coach Ian Foster said on Thursday.

The opening round was always one of uncertainty, with all teams wondering what they would come up with at the start of the fresh campaign, Foster said.

"From the Chiefs' perspective, we've enjoyed our pre-season, are excited and ready to play," he said.

"The Crusaders match will be an intense local derby, one that we are keen to get into."

The Chiefs won all three of their pre-season outings - against the Blues, the Highlanders and the Hurricanes.

They have also beaten the Crusaders in their past two Super 14 meetings.

Foster has included one Super rugby debutant in his starting 15 in Tongan-born prop Sona Taumololo, who impressed for Hawke's Bay in last year's Air NZ Cup.

Two others, hooker Hika Elliot and lock Craig Clarke, will making their first appearances for the Chiefs after moving from the Hurricanes.

The rest of the run-on side comprises players with plenty of experience with the Hamilton-based franchise.

They include halfback Brendon Leonard, who is returning after an after an eight-month break recovering from a knee injury.

Chiefs: Mils Muliaina (capt), Lelia Masaga, Richard Kahui, Dwayne Sweeney, Sitiveni Sivivatu, Stephen Donald, Brendon Leonard, Sione Lauaki, Tanerau Latimer, Liam Messam, Kevin O'Neill, Craig Clarke, Ben May, Hika Elliot, Sona Taumalolo. Res: Aled de Malmanche, James McGougan, Toby Lynn, Colin Bourke, Toby Morland, Mike Delany, Callum Bruce.

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