Despite absences to other international squads including the USA and Canada, Dave Rennie is able to call upon a number of returnees from Scotland camp including Ali Price, Tommy Seymour and Pete Horne while he also welcomes back Tim Swinson from injury. Niko Matawalu is set for his 100th Glasgow appearance.
Horne will play at 10 with academy prospect Stafford McDowall looking to boost his chances of a pro contract while the big guns are away.
All in all it is quite a new look pack but there is experience dotted about with Rob Harley – unlucky not to add to his caps in the autumn given recent form – at the beating heart of it.
The backline should be able to deliver the Rennie gameplan in front of the Scotstoun faithful if the pack can get them moving.
Oh, and Cardiff have a player called Liam Belcher. Chuckles.
Glasgow Warriors: Ruaridh Jackson, Tommy Seymour, Nick Grigg, Stafford McDowall, Nikola Matawalu, Pete Horne, Ali Price; Jamie Bhatti, George Turner, D’arcy Rae, Rob Harley, Kiran McDonald Seran, Adam Ashe, Callum Gibbins, Matt Fagerson.
Replacements: Grant Stewart, Kevin Bryce, Petrus du Plessis, Tim Swinson, Matt Smith, Nick Frisby, Brandon Thomson, Rory Hughes.
Cardiff Blues: Tom Williams, Aled Summerhill, Garyn Smith, Willis Halaholo, Jason Harries, Jarrod Evans, Lloyd Williams, Brad Thyer, Kristian Dacey, Keiron Assiratti, George Earle, Seb Davies, Josh Turnbull, Olly Robinson, Nick Williams.
Replacements: Liam Belcher, Rhys Carre, Scott Andrews, James Down, Sion Bennett, Lewis Jones, Steve Shingler, Harri Millard.
Referee: John Lacey (IRFU)
Scotstoun, Friday 23rd, 7.35pm