Smith's return bumps Kayne Hammington to the bench, where he's joined by Tevita Li who returns from injury.
Patelesio Tomkinson starts at second five for the concussed Teihorangi Walden, while in the forwards Jackson Hemopo and Dillon Hunt return at lock and openside flanker respectively.
The Blues have made three changes to their run-on side to face the Crusaders on Friday, featuring a first run-on start for Counties Manukau lock Matiaha Martin for the injured Patrick Tuipulotu.
Rieko Ioane returns to his favoured left wing, with Melani Nanai starting on the right, while Pauliasi Manu's at loosehead prop for Ross Wright who swaps to the bench.
Coach Tana Umaga says it's a great chance for Martin.
He says it's exciting for him and these are the opportunities that arrive through circumstances.
Caleb Clarke has been left out after suffering a knock last week and will link up with the New Zealand under-20s on Saturday.
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