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Welsh international returns for Highlanders but De Groot ruled out
By Ben Smith
The Highlanders will be without All Black prop Ethan de Groot for their clash against the Chiefs in Hamilton due to HIA protocols the team announced today.
The loss of De Groot comes as the Southerners look to stop a four-game losing streak against the high-flying Chiefs and register their first win over a New Zealand side since 2021.
Stepping in at loosehead is Waikato-product Ayden Johnstone, who will pack down along side Henry Bell and Saula Ma'u in the front row.
Lock Max Hicks is also sidelined with a wrist injury, opening the door for Pari Pari Parkinson to return to the starting side along side Fabian Holland in the second row.
Sean Withy returns also at No 6, forming a loose forward trio with All Black-hopeful Billy Harmon and Tom Sanders, who moves to No 8. Last week's starting No 8 Nikora Broughton moves to the reserves.
Out wide the team welcomes back Wales international first five-eighth Rhys Patchell and left winger Jona Nareki.
Last week's starting No 10 Cam Miller misses out on the game day 23 with Ajay Faleafaga named on the bench as cover alongside outside back Connor Garden-Bachop.
The rest of the starting backline remains unchanged as the Highlanders look to build consistency.
The challenge ahead for the Highlanders is formidable, the Chiefs have won 12 of their last 14 home games.
“Every game is important for us, and we’ve put ourselves in positions in every game this year to win, we haven’t won every game but that’s the challenge," head coach Clark Dermody said.
“We’re building belief in the team that we’re good enough. The challenge for our guys is to believe we’re good enough from the start and then make sure we take the moments in game when they count.”
Highlanders team to play the Chiefs – 4:35pm, Saturday 23rd March, FMG Stadium, Hamilton
1. Ayden Johnstone
2. Henry Bell
3. Saula Ma’u
4. Fabian Holland
5. Pari Pari Parkinson
6. Sean Withy
7. Billy Harmon (C)
8. Tom Sanders
9. Folau Fakatava
10. Rhys Patchell
11. Jona Nareki
12. Sam Gilbert (VC)
13. Tanielu Tele’a
14. Timoci Tavatavanawai
15. Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens
RESERVES
16. Jack Taylor
17. Daniel Lienert-Brown
18. Jermaine Ainsley
19. Oliver Haig
20. Nikora Broughton
21. James Arscott
22. Ajay Faleafaga
23. Connor Garden-Bachop
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