| In the backs Jamie Robinson and Ed Fairhurst come in for Tom Shanklin and Mike Phillips who are on international duty. In the forwards Rhys Shellard, James Goode, Gareth Williams and John Yapp replace Martyn Williams, Rob Sidoli, Rhys Thomas and Gethin Jenkins who are also all in the Welsh squad. Toufaao Filise comes in for Gary Powell who is suspended for four weeks following the Leicester match.
"Rhys Shellard and Tom James have both impressed us in training and it's good that they can have their opportunity to prove what they can do at the regional level," said Blues Director of Coaching Dai Young. "They are both products from our conveyor belt Academy up in Trefforest and I'm sure both are looking forward to playing on Friday.
"Edinburgh are a quality team and have recorded some big wins already this season, notably against Munster, Leinster and Ulster. It's great to see Lynn Howells back closer to home and doing well, I learnt a lot from him as a coach and have a lot of time for him as a coach and as a man.
"Apart from the Welsh squad players and the long term injuries the only player unavailable for selection was Mark Lewis who suffered a neck nerve injury against Leicester but he should be available for the Connacht match."
Edinburgh v Cardiff Blues
15. Ben Blair
14. Mosese Luveitasau
13. Jamie Robinson
12. Marc Stcherbina
11. Chris Czekaj
10. Nicky Robinson
9. Ed Fairhurst
8. Xavier Rush (Capt)
7. Rhys Shellard
6. Scott Morgan
5. James Goode
4. Deiniol Jones
3. Toufaao Filise
2. Gareth Williams
1. John Yapp
Replacements
16. Scott Roberts
17. Duane Goodfield
18. Bradley Davies
19. Ben White
20. Wayne Evans
21. Nick Macleod
22. Tom James
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