Fullback Wade McKinnon makes a welcome return to the Warriors against Brisbane in Auckland on Saturday in what will be his 100th National Rugby League match.
McKinnon had reconstruction surgery in his right knee after suffering ligament damage in the club's pre-season trial against Newcastle on February 15.
A prediction by team doctor John Mayhew that the 27-year-old would recover in time for the end of the 2008 season came to fruition and no one is looking forward to it more than McKinnon.
"I really appreciate the work the medical guys have done and I can't wait to get back into it," he said.
"It's been difficult at times working my way back from the operation but everyone has been helping me.
"It's a huge game for us as a club taking on the Broncos. It always is when you play them and I'm really looking forward to being out there with the boys again."
McKinnon will cap his 23rd appearance for the Warriors, following 26 with South Sydney and 51 with Parramatta.
He replaces Lance Hohaia, who moves to the bench after filling the gap for the season to date.
Coach Ivan Cleary described Hohaia as the "fix it man" and said he had done a fine job at fullback.
Michael Witt has also been recalled after playing for the Auckland Vulcans in the New South Wales Cup.
He starts as standoff with Nathan Fien taking over at halfback from Grant Rovelli.
Cleary has put Malo Solomona back on the right wing for Aidan Kirk, who's out of contention with a hamstring injury, while Jerome Ropati starts at left centre ahead of Sonny Fai.
Epalahame Lauaki, who has also been with the Vulcans for the last few weeks, takes Evarn Tuimavave's spot on the bench.
Off-season signing Brent Tate will play against his old club for the first time.
When the Warriors and Broncos met in round two last year, the Warriors beat the then defending premiers 24-14, while Brisbane won both encounters between the two sides in 2006.
Team:- Wade McKinnon, Malo Solomona, Brent Tate, Jerome Ropati, Manu Vatuvei, Michael Witt, Nathan Fien, Ruben Wiki, Ian Henderson, Steve Price (captain), Simon Mannering, Logan Swann, Micheal Luck.
Interchange: Lance Hohaia, Ben Matulino, Epalahame Lauaki, Sam Rapira.
- NZPA
