Miah Nikora has been selected at out-half to replace Craig Ronaldson in Connacht’s only change for the visit of Edinburgh to the Sportsground on Friday night.
The 29-year-old New Zealander, a second-half substitute during the Westerners’ 24-16 win over Munster last week, will partner Kieran Marmion for the Guinness PRO12 clash in Galway.
Ronaldson remains sidelined with concussion.
"With the pleasing team performance last week against Munster, we are putting out the same match-day squad this week, with the exception of Craig (Ronaldson),” Connacht head coach Pat Lam said.
“But after showing his experience from the bench last week, Miah now comes in to start this important game for us.
“Looking at it, we don't believe it's a case of 'backing up' the Munster win, but rather a case of being even better again in our performance this week."
CONNACHT (v Edinburgh):
15. Mils Muliaina
14. Darragh Leader
13. Robbie Henshaw
12. Bundee Aki
11. Danie Poolman
10. Miah Nikora
9. Kieran Marmion
1. Denis Buckley
2. Tom McCartney
3. Rodney Ah You
4. Quinn Roux
5. Aly Muldowney
6. John Muldoon (captain)
7. Willie Faloon
8. Eoin McKeon
Replacements:
16. Dave Heffernan
17. Ronan Loughney
18. Finlay Bealham
19. Ultan Dillane
20. George Naoupu
21. John Cooney
22. Jack Carty
23. Dave McSharry
