Former All Black Luke McAlister will get his first start of the Super Rugby season when the Blues play the Lions in Johannesburg on Saturday.

After keeping his run-on 15 intact for the loss against the Sharks last weekend, Blues coach Pat Lam made six changes on Tuesday.

McAlister, who missed the first round victory over the Crusaders because of concussion but came on during the 26-12 defeat in Durban, replaces five eighth Stephen Brett, who is among the reserves.

In other changes, hooker Keven Mealamu is given a spell on the bench, with Tom McCartney elevated to the No 2 jersey, while Luke Braid replaces brother Daniel as openside flanker.

Elsewhere in the pack, Kurtis Haiu comes in for Anthony Boric at lock, and Peter Saili for Chris Lowrey at No 8, while Sherwin Stowers starts on the left wing ahead of Rene Ranger.

Daniel Braid, Boric and Ranger have all been included on the bench.

Blues: Isaia Toeava, Joe Rokocoko, Jared Payne, Benson Stanley, Sherwin Stowers, Luke McAlister, Alby Mathewson, Peter Saili, Luke Braid, Jerome Kaino (capt), Ali Williams, Kurtis Haiu, John Afoa, Tom McCartney, Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Keven Mealamu, Charlie Faumuina, Anthony Boric, Daniel Braid, Toby Morland, Stephen Brett, Rene Ranger.

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