Steven Luatua returns to action for Bristol Bears' Gallagher Premiership round one trip to face Newcastle Falcons at Kingston Park (7.45pm KO).
The Bears centurion and former captain missed his side's pre-season fixtures with a wrist injury but makes his comeback in the North East, as Pat Lam's men kick off the new league season.
Fitz Harding captains the side from number eight, while England international Ellis Genge starts at loosehead, alongside Harry Thacker and Max Lahiff in the front row.
Harry Randall and AJ MacGinty are named at half back, with James Williams and Benhard Janse van Rensburg continuing their midfield partnership. Siva Naulago, Gabriel Ibitoye and Max Malins make up a potent back three.
Among the replacements, Bristolian Academy graduate George Kloska and current Academy centre Joe Jenkins are included, alongside Argentina U20 back row Benjamin Grondona.
Bristol Bears team to face Newcastle Falcons at Kingston Park on Friday (7.45pm KO):
15. Max Malins (33 apps), 14. Siva Naulago (35 apps), 13. Benhard Janse van Rensburg (25 apps), 12. James Williams (42 apps), 11. Gabriel Ibitoye (41 apps), 10. AJ MacGinty (37 apps), 9. Harry Randall (126 apps); 1. Ellis Genge (44 apps), 2. Harry Thacker (115 apps), 3. Max Lahiff (87 apps), 4. James Dun (34 apps), 5. Joe Batley (63 apps), 6. Steven Luatua (130 apps), 7. Jake Heenan (109 apps), 8. Fitz Harding (c) (72 apps).
System players: 16. Gabriel Oghre (17 apps), 17. Jake Woolmore (150 apps), 18. George Kloska (43 apps), 19. Josh Caulfield (24 apps), 20. Benjamin Grondona (1 app), 21. Kieran Marmion (24 apps), 22. Joe Jenkins (11 apps), 23. Rich Lane (35 apps).
Unavailable: Tom Doughty, Steele Barker, George Taylor, Santiago Grondona, Viliame Mata, Sam Wolstenholme, Sam Worsley, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Noah Heward.
