Mason Grady will make only his second URC start for Cardiff this year when they face Scarlets in their first Welsh derby of the festive season.
The centre was absent from last weekend's dramatic European Challenge Cup win over Ulster - but he returns to the starting XV as one of six changes for Friday night's clash at the Arms Park (7.35pm ko)
Hooker Evan Lloyd is on the replacements bench as Cardiff aim to pick up where they left off following an impressive start to the league season.
They're currently second in the URC table after winning five of their opening six games.
Head coach Corniel van Zyl said: "We were really pleased with our result against Ulster and the way the boys fought back for a great win."
"It has kept our momentum going ahead of a massive run of games with three consecutive Welsh derbies. We are in a good position in the league, which is nice to see, but it’s all about taking it one game at a time and all that matters right now is the Scarlets."
"It’s been a long time since we beat them at the Arms Park so that is a big motivation for the group. After a tough start, they have really found some form, they enjoy coming here, are building momentum and have a lot of experience with quality players."
"It promises to be a great occasion, with a packed stadium and we will need to be at the top of our game, but it is a challenge that we are looking forward to."
Last month, Grady made his first Cardiff apperance in more than a year, playing a full 80 minutes in their 29-14 win over Zebre, before figuring the following week in their 38-17 Challenge Cup defeat to Stade Francais the following week.
He'll partner fellow Welsh internationals Cam Winnett and Josh Adams in the back-three, while Taulupe Falteau, Alex Mann and Johan Mulder also return to the bench after recovering from injury.
Cardiff follow up with a Boxing Day clash at home to Dragons before taking on Ospreys at the Brewery Field in Bridgend on New Year's Day.
Cardiff XV to face Scarlets: Josh Adams, Harri Millard, Ben Thomas, Mason Grady; Callum Sheedy, Aled Davies; Danny Southworth, Liam Belcher (capt), Javan Sebastian, Josh McNally, George Nott, James Botham, Dan Thomas, Alun Lawrence.
Replacements: Evan Lloyd, Rhys Barratt, Sam Wainwright, Rory Thornton, Alex Mann, Taulupe Faletau, Johan Mulder, Jacob Beetham.
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