New Zealand Super Rugby Conference leaders the Chiefs have made six changes to their team for this weekend's clash against the Bulls.

Friday's match will be Chiefs co-captain Liam Messam's 90th match for the Chiefs, making him the highest capped Chief of all time, surpassing the previous record of 89 games, set by winger Sitiveni Sivivatu.

Coach Dave Rennie has made some changes to his starting line up with some players returning back from injury.

Props Toby Smith and Ben Afeaki start, with Afeaki playing his first game for the Chiefs since his round one injury.

Jackson Willison replaces the injured Richard Kahui and Robbie Robinson comes on to the bench. Halfback Tawera Kerr-Barlow starts with Brendon Leonard moving to the reserves and Kane Thompson starts at No8.

Chiefs

1. Toby Smith,2. Hika Elliot,3. Ben Afeaki,4. Craig Clarke (c),5. Brodie Retallick ,6. Liam Messam - 90th game,7. Tanerau Latimer,8. Kane Thompson,9. Tawera Kerr-Barlow,10. Aaron Cruden,11. Asaeli Tikoirotuma,12. Sonny Bill Williams,13. Jackson Willison,14. Lelia Masaga ,15. Andrew Horrell

Replacements : 16. Mahonri Schwalger,17. Arizona Taumalolo,18. Michael Fitzgerald,19. Sam Cane,20. Brendon Leonard,21. Robbie Robinson,22. Maritino Nemani