Fullback Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens will play his first game after recovering from a broken neck sustained in the NPC last year. Halfback Folau Fakatava has recovered from a hamstring injury, while co-captain and No 8 Hugh Renton will return. First five-eighths, Cameron Millar, is back from a concussion to combine with Fakatava, while an injury to wing Caleb Tangitau will see Manawatu player Taniela Filimone make his debut.
Joseph said he was pleased to have players returning from injury available this weekend because their injuries had compromised part of the season.
"We never use that as a reason or an excuse because every team is going through player injuries. But our depth isn't as strong experience-wise as some of the other teams."
He said he thought Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens' career was over due to his injury, but he and the medical team had worked hard to get back.
"He's positive. He played club rugby last week and has been training a lot. We've taken precautions around his return to play and he's ready to go."
It was the same with Millar, who looked more confident after his knock. He has played some club rugby, and after his performance against the Drua last year, Joseph is looking for a similar show of his expertise on Saturday.
"It's nice to have them back, they're keen. My expectation is that they execute their role within the team because if they can do that, and we can do that collectively, then we'll get a winning performance.
"What compounds is pressure and expection which doesn't help young guys deal with pressure. It's a bit of a balance. We've got injuries to our players and we need the support of these boys that are ready to go."
New Zealand Under-20 lock Tai Cribb has joined the side as cover for locks in the squad and will be on the bench.
"He had a good connection and relationship with Dave Dillon, who is from up those parts, and he'd been with the Chiefs all year with the wider training group or a replacement at the start of the season. He's fitted in like a glove."