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Highlanders make three changes in culture round matchup against Moana Pasifika

98 days ago

NVERCARGILL, NEW ZEALAND - FEBRUARY 06: Timoci Tavatavanawai of the Highlanders charges forward during the Super Rugby Trial Match between Highlanders and Crusaders at Rugby Park on February 06, 2025 in Invercargill, New Zealand. (Photo by Joe Allison/Getty Images)

On the back of a historic victory against the Blues last weekend in Dunedin, Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph has made three changes to the run on squad of 15.

Reserve prop from last weekend Daniel Lienert-Brown will miss the next three weeks due to a suspension after his dangerous cleanout on Blues halfback Taufa Funaki on Saturday.

Star midfielder and captain for Friday’s match Timoci Tavatavanawai is named again in the No.12 jersey, while 21-year-old fullback Finn Hurley will continue at fullback.

Co-captain Hugh Renton will miss the matchup on Friday against Moana Pasifika, due to a slight niggle. Renton is replaced by Nikora Broughton at No.8 who will look to build on his solid Bunnings NPC form.

On the bench, All Blacks prop Ethan de Groot will provide impact while TK Howden has the chance to make his Highlanders debut.

Joseph is looking forward to Super Rugby Pacific culture round, saying that his team have enjoyed a positive week of training.

“We know Moana Pasifika will bring plenty of intensity and passion, playing in front of their family and friends at their new home ground. Our focus this week has been on building on our momentum and executing our game plan, and we’re excited to get another opportunity to deliver for our fans,” Joseph said.

Head-to-Head

Last 5 Meetings

Wins

Draws

Wins

Average Points scored

First try wins

40%

Home team wins

20%

Starting XV:

Josh Bartlett*
Soane Mikaele Vikena
Sefo Kautai
Fabian Holland
Mitch Dunshea
Sean Withy
Veveni Lasaqa
Nikora Broughton
Folau Fakatava
Taine Robinson
Caleb Tangitau
Timoci Tavatavanawai (C)
Tanielu Tele’a
Sam Gilbert
Finn Hurley

Impact:

Jack Taylor
Ethan de Groot
Saula Ma’u
Will Stodart
Te Kamaka (TK) Howden*
Nathan Hastie
Cameron Millar
Jake Te Hiwi

*debut/potential debut

Injury update: Oliver Haig (foot / 7 weeks ), Jonah Lowe (ACL / 4 weeks ), Jona Nareki (ankle / 2 weeks), Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens (neck / 7 weeks), Josh Whaanga (back / 1 week)

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