The two-time defending champion Chiefs will be well tested in their opening Super Rugby match at the Crusaders on Friday night as they're set to be without a number of players because of injury.
Flanker Sam Cane is the latest to be sidelined after suffering a knee injury in the pre-season clash with the Blues.
It is expected that at least a dozen players won't be available for selection when coach Dave Rennie names his team.
However the Chiefs have plenty of depth and Rennie is still expected to name a top side.