Highlanders make back row reshuffle and name 6-2 bench for the Blues

The Highlanders have switched up their back row combinations and named a forward-heavy bench as they prepare to take on the Blues in Dunedin.

After falling just short of the Waratahs in Sydney, the Highlanders are preparing to face the defending champs in their home opener with some intriguing match ups.

To counter the strength of the Blues pack, former Japan Rugby League one star Lui Naeata moves from blindside flanker to the No.23 jersey as an extra forward on the reserves.

Fixture

Super Rugby Pacific

Highlanders

29 - 21

Full-time

Blues

All Stats and Data

Last week’s openside Sean Withy moves to No.6 with former Hurricane and Fijian loosie Veveni Lasaqa taking the No.7 jumper. Hugh Renton will co-captain the side at No.8

Last week’s two-try club debutant Caleb Tangitau will face his former team with an intriguing match up with All Black Mark Tele’a.

The headline change in the backs is the elevation of pocket rocket fullback Finn Hurley into the No.15 jersey, with Sam Gilbert moving to the right wing.

Head-to-Head

Last 5 Meetings

Wins

1

Draws

0

Wins

4

Average Points scored

20

36

First try wins

60%

Home team wins

60%

Highlanders team to play the Blues – 7:05pm Saturday 22nd February, Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin

1. Ethan de Groot
2. Soane Mikaele Vikena
3. Saula Ma’u
4. Fabian Holland
5. Mitch Dunshea
6. Sean Withy
7. Veveni Lasaqa
8. Hugh Renton (CC)
9. Folau Fakatava
10. Taine Robinson
11. Caleb Tangitau
12. Timoci Tavatavanawai (CC)
13. Tanielu Tele’a
14. Sam Gilbert
15. Finn Hurley

Impact:

16. Jack Taylor
17. Daniel Lienert-Brown
18. Sefo Kautai
19. Will Stodart
20. Nikora Broughton
21. Nathan Hastie
22. Cameron Millar
23. Lui Naeata

Injury update:

Oliver Haig (foot / 8 weeks ), Jonah Lowe (ACL / 6 weeks ), TK Howden (hamstring / 3 weeks), Jona Nareki (ankle /4 weeks), Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens (neck / 8 weeks)