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De Groot returns for Highlanders to play Hurricanes
By Ben Smith
All Blacks prop Ethan de Groot returns to the Highlanders as they prepare to face on the best front rows in Super Rugby Pacific against the Hurricanes.
After being injured against the Brumbies two weeks ago, De Groot returns along with lock Max Hicks, while veteran tighthead Jermaine Ainsley has been sidelined with injury.
Exciting prospect Saula Ma'u will start in Ainsley's place, with 21-year-old Rohan Wingham in line to debut off the bench.
Partnering Hicks in the second row is Fabian Holland, while Sean Withy, Billy Harmon and Tom Sanders form the loose forward trio.
With Tanielu Tele'a ruled out through suspension, Jonah Lowe has been named at centre to partner Sam Gilbert. Josh Timu has been named on the bench as midfield cover.
The halves and back three remain unchanged from the team that just fell short against the Chiefs.
The Highlanders will lean a strong home record to break a five-match losing streak against the Hurricanes and a winless run against New Zealand teams that extends back to 2021.
Highlanders team to play Hurricanes:
1. Ethan de Groot
2. Henry Bell
3. Saula Ma’u
4. Fabian Holland
5. Max Hicks
6. Sean Withy
7. Billy Harmon (C)
8. Tom Sanders
9. Folau Fakatava
10. Rhys Patchell
11. Jona Nareki
12. Sam Gilbert (VC)
13. Jonah Lowe
14. Timoci Tavatavanawai
15. Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens
Reserves
16. Jack Taylor
17. Daniel Lienert-Brown
18. Rohan Wingham
19. Oliver Haig
20. Nikora Broughton
21. James Arscott
22. Ajay Faleafaga
23. Josh Timu
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Latest Comments
He was no more a candidate than other 10's in the Super squads. A lot of very good players in the Crusaders and Canterbury squads but they are very system focused (which does work for the most part) and sometimes when the team is not going well those players look no better than others. Josh Ioane and Stephen Perefoeta were more highly regarded a couple of seasons ago when Burke appeared. Even Mitch Hunt was rated ahead at the time. Burke promotion to the Crusaders was likely because Hunt shifted.
Burke if he was fit and sticked around then definetly would of had a strong chance if his progress continued.
Go to commentsAgain, well done for the choice of image. Fits like an awkward glove.
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