Highlanders looking to keep season alive versus Moana Pasifika

Highlanders co-captain Timoci Tavatavanawai is back in the midfield as his team prepares to host Moana Pasifika on Sunday afternoon in Dunedin.

The star of the Highlanders backline this season, Tavatavanawai leads the competition with 16 breakdown turnovers after 10 games.

Elsewhere in the back line, recently re-signed Folau Fakatava will play from the bench this week, with young halfback Nathan Hastie getting the chance to start at No.9. He will partner Otago teammate Cam Miller in the halves.

Up front there are minimal changes with Oli Haig getting a chance to start at lock while co-captain Hugh Renton returns to No.8.

Prop Rohan Wingham makes his first appearance in the game day squad for the season from the bench replacing the injured Sosefo Kautai.

The Highlanders have never lost to Moana, winning all five of their contests so far. A win on Sunday is crucial for the Highlanders hopes, currently in 10th place.

A win while denying any bonus points would propel Jamie Joseph’s team over Moana on the ladder, with three competition points between them.

Head-to-Head

Last 5 Meetings

Wins

4

Draws

0

Wins

1

Average Points scored

34

24

First try wins

40%

Home team wins

20%

Highlanders team to play Moana Pasifika:

1. Ethan de Groot
2. Soane Vikena
3. Saula Ma’u
4. Fabian Holland
5. Oliver Haig
6. Te Kamaka Howden
7. Sean Withy
8. Hugh Renton (cc)
9. Nathan Hastie
10. Cameron Millar
11. Jonah Lowe
12. Timoci Tavatavanawai (cc)
13. Thomas Umaga-Jensen
14. Sam Gilbert
15. Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens

Reserves
16. Jack Taylor
17. Josh Bartlett
18. Rohan Wingham
19. Mitch Dunshea
20. Veveni Lasaqa
21. Folau Fakatava
22. Taine Robinson
23. Jake Te Hiwi

Injury update: Caleb Tangitau (Groin 1-2 weeks), Tanielu Tele’a (Hamstring 1-2 weeks), Jona Nareki (Knee 1-2 Weeks), Sosefo Kautai (Neck 1-2 weeks), Nikora Broughton (Knee MCL 4-6 weeks), Finn Hurley (Quad – Season End), Hayden Michaels (Hamstring – Season End), Ajay Faleafaga (Broken hand – Season End), James Arscott (Shoulder – TBC).