New Warriors hooker Nathan Friend will face his former team after being named in a 25-strong squad to face the Gold Coast in Saturday’s NRL trial match in Auckland.

The 30-year-old Friend, who signed a two-year deal with the Warriors, will make his debut after being included in new coach Brian McClennan’s first squad of the season.

McClennan named 11 of the 17 players who featured in last year’s grand final loss to Manly for the match at North Harbour Stadium and also handed call ups to six of the Toyota Cup-winning Junior Warriors.

Captain Ben Henry, Konrad Hurrell, Carlos Tuimavave, Sam Lousi, Sio Siua Taukeiaho and Sebastine Ikahihifo will get a chance to impress at senior level.

Fullback Kevin Locke, lock forward Micheal Luck, centre Jerome Ropati and prop Russell Packer will miss the match as will bullocking winger Manu Vatuvei who is set to play for the NRL All Stars on the Gold Coast on Saturday.

“Micheal (Luck) is coming along well after his shoulder surgery but won’t be back for a few weeks yet,” said McClennan.

“Jerome isn’t ready to play just yet but hopefully he’ll play a trial before the season starts while Kevin and Russell should be in contention for next weekend’s trial against South Sydney (at Coffs Harbour).”

Gold Coast coach John Cartwright has included new signings Luke Douglas, Beau Champion and Beau Falloon in his 22-man squad.

Warriors: Lewis Brown, Glen Fisiiahi, Nathan Friend, Pita Godinet, Ben Henry, Konrad Hurrell, Sebastine Ikahihifo, Krisnan Inu, Shaun Johnson, Jacob Lillyman, Sam Lousi, Sione Lousi, James Maloney, Simon Mannering (capt), Alehana Mara, Feleti Mateo, Ben Matulino, Ivan Penehe, Sam Rapira, Steve Rapira, Ukuma Ta’ai, Sio Siua Taukeiaho, Elijah Taylor, Carlos Tuimavave, Bill Tupou.