Highlanders fortify bench for Reds showdown in Brisbane

The Highlanders are sticking with continuity for their first away game of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, where they’ll face the Reds in Brisbane.

Head coach Jamie Joseph has made just two changes to the starting XV that fell just four points shy of another upset in round two, with Will Stodart promoted to the starting XV as Oliver Haig moves to the bench, and Adam Lennox coming into the No.9 jersey as Folau Fakatava moves to No.21.

The narrow Chiefs loss featured Henry Bell and Josh Bartlett as reserve front-rowers, but Soane Vikena and Daniel Lienert-Brown will offer impact against the Queenslanders instead this week.

The changes add plenty of experience to the Highlanders’ bench, and Joseph said his side is searching for an 80-minute performance in Brisbane.

“The Reds are coming off a bye and they’ve got a proud record at home,” the coach said. “Our game is growing, and we’re working hard on the small details that will help us deliver a more complete 80?minute performance. We’ll need that level of accuracy and intensity if we’re going to get the job done on Friday.”

Head-to-Head

Last 5 Meetings

Wins

3

Draws

0

Wins

2

Average Points scored

28

20

First try wins

60%

Home team wins

60%

Highlanders team to face the Reds

1. Ethan de Groot
2. Jack Taylor
3. Rohan Wingham
4. Will Stodart
5. Mitch Dunshea
6. Te Kamaka Howden
7. Sean Withy (CC)
8. Lucas Casey
9. Adam Lennnox
10. Cameron Millar
11. Jona Nareki
12. Timoci Tavatavanawai (CC)
13. Jonah Lowe
14. Caleb Tangitau
15. Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens

Reserves

16. Soane Vikena
17. Daniel Lienert-Brown
18. Sosefo Kautai
19. Oliver Haig
20. Veveni Lasaqa
21. Folau Fakatava
22. Reesjan Pasitoa
23. Tanielu Tele’a

Injury list

Saula Ma’u (shoulder – 5 weeks)
Finn Hurley (foot – 6 weeks)
Andrew Knewstubb (quad – 1 week)

Season Ending: Dylan Pledger (ACL) Fabian Holland (Shoulder)