The 82-cap former Scotland star, who is 33 and plans to retire at the end of the season, will lead the side from fly-half as Chris Cusiter is on international duty and Calum MacRae (foot) is ruled out of the trip.
Samoan Opeta Palepoi returns to the second row, with Scotland caps Bruce Douglas and Ross Ford back at prop and hooker respectively.
Head coach Steve Bates said: "Connacht at home are a very good outfit and we are all really looking forward to the challenge."
