Steve Price has overcome a niggling injury and will lead the New Zealand Warriors into their opening National Rugby League match against Manly at Ericsson Stadium, Auckland on Sunday.
Price, who turns 31 on Saturday, wasn't risked in either of the club's two pre-season trials because of shin soreness but coach Tony Kemp had no concerns about calling him straight into the side this weekend.
"We're delighted to have him available for the start of the season," Kemp said in a statement.
"Steve's made a huge difference since joining our coaching sessions and, while he missed the trials, we're confident he'll handle it."
Price will be part of a new starting front row for the Warriors, making his debut for his new club alongside two of the other off-season signings.
As expected, North Queensland halfback Nathan Fien has the dummy-half job while 12-year Canberra veteran and Kiwis captain Ruben Wiki starts at prop.
"Steve and Ruben give us enormous experience," Kemp said.
"They'll take us forward and give us the platform we want while Nathan has looked outstanding doing the No 9's job."
The fourth off-season gain, Todd Byrne, lines up on the right wing, having joined the Warriors after 61 games with the Roosters.
In the battle for back-row spots, vice-captain Monty Betham starts in his preferred position at loose forward while Awen Guttenbeil begins his 10th first grade season in his customary spot in the second row. Wairangi Koopu to start in the second row in his 93rd NRL appearance.
Lance Hohaia, a Kiwi as a 19-year-old in 2002, has clinched the standoff's spot ahead of Jerome Ropati, who's on the bench providing cover at No 6 as well as centre and fullback.
Completing the bench are props Richard Villasanti and Iafeta Paleaaesina plus back rower Louis Anderson, who can also cover hooker.
"We have good coverage of positions with this team but it was a really difficult one to pick," Kemp said.
"There are quite a few players who are disappointed to miss out and we'd expect that. At the same time, they're all capable of pushing past those who have been selected."
Team: Brent webb, Todd Byrne, Tony Martin, Clinton Toopi, Francis Meli, Lance Hohaia, Stacey Jones, Monty Betham, Wairangi Koopu, Awen Guttenbeil, Steve Price (captain), Nathan Fien, Ruben Wiki. Interchange: Jerome Ropati, Iafeta Paleaaesina, Louis Anderson, Richard Villasanti.
Price overcomes injury to captain Warriors
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