An injury to Nathan Harris has resulted in a late dash from New Zealand to Port Elizabeth for Chiefs hooker Hika Elliot.
One-Test rake Harris was to make his first start of the Super Rugby season against the Southern Kings on Saturday but was ruled out after sustaining a head knock during training.
Rhys Marshall has been promoted from the reserves and will start his third successive game while Elliot is scheduled to arrive in time to take his place on the bench.
The four-Test All Blacks hooker is set to make his first appearance of the season, having missed the win over the Crusaders and loss to the Lions while recovering from concussion suffered during the pre-season.
The 30-year-old proved his fitness during a game for the Chiefs development team on Wednesday.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
Chiefs: Damian McKenzie, Glen Fisiiahi, Seta Tamanivalu, Charlie Ngatai, James Lowe, Aaron Cruden (co-capt), Brad Weber, Michael Leitch, Sam Cane (co-capt), Taleni Seu, Johan Bardoul, Michael Allardice, Siate Tokolahi, Rhys Marshall, Mitchell Graham. Res: Hika Elliot, Pauliasi Manu, Atu Moli, James Tucker, Maama Vaipulu, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Anton Lienert-Brown, Sam McNichol.
