Navidi has been ruled out of action through injury since last month’s European clash with Toulon, but the fit-again Wales international is now recalled by Blues as they hunt a crucial league win.
Director of Rugby Phil Davies makes a total of seven changes to his starting line-up with exciting young wing Owen Jenkins, who last month signed a long-term deal at Blues, one of four changes to the back division.
Gavin Evans is named at inside centre, where he will partner Isaia Tuifua, while a new-look half back pairing will see Gareth Davies and Lewis Jones join forces.
Sam Hobbs will captain the team from the front row while James Down is recalled for his second start of the season in the RaboDirect PRO12.
Macauley Cook moves to blindside flanker where he links up with Navidi and Robin Copeland in the back row.
Changes on the bench include a call-up for back row Luke Hamilton and Wales Under-20 scrum half Tomos Williams.
Davies said: “In all the Irish provinces there is huge depth and Leinster will be strong no matter what side they select. They showed that last weekend against the Dragons as they claimed a bonus point win.
“We have a total of 22 players missing in total, either away on international duty or injured, but have great faith in our boys and I know they can do a great job. We have a number of young players involved and it’s exciting to see them get an opportunity to impress.
“The squad has worked very hard and we’ve had good patches throughout this season. But this is the most important period we have had and we are going to have this season.
“After the frustration of the last match against Glasgow the quick turnaround it’s great,” he added.
“It’s a big challenge as we hunt a top six place and we need to start getting positive results. It’s vital we get the team emotional and physically ready for this game and hopefully we will have a big crowd right behind us to see us tackle the champions.”
Tickets remain on sale NOW for the home clash with Leinster Rugby in the RaboDirect PRO12. Call the Ticket Office on 02920 302030 or click HERE to buy online.
Cardiff Blues: 15 Dan Fish, 14 Owen Jenkins, 13 Isaia Tuifua, 12 Gavin Evans, 11 Harry Robinson, 10 Gareth Davies, 9 Lewis Jones; 1 Sam Hobbs (c), 2 Kristian Dacey, 3 Scott Andrews, 4 James Down, 5 Filo Paulo, 6 Macauley Cook, 7 Josh Navidi, 8 Robin Copeland
Replacements: 16 Rhys Williams, 17 Tom Davies, 18 Patrick Palmer, 19 Chris Dicomidis, 20 Luke Hamilton, 21 Tomos Williams, 22 Simon Humberstone, 23 Tom Williams