Ben Smith says last week's loss in Suva is behind the Highlanders as they look to a great challenge against the Crusaders.
The Highlanders were defeated by a clinical Chiefs outfit at the ANZ stadium in Suva last week, losing 45‑22 and saw them concede six unanswered tries.
Smith says they were disappointed but they have another chance tomorrow.
Highlanders coach Aaron Mauger has not tinkered with his line‑up heavily for the game, although the biggest could be in the loose forwards with Liam Squire bracketed to start if he is cleared by medical staff.
Squire’s name has been put alongside Elliot Dixon's for the game.
Elsewhere, Mauger has opted to start utility Richard Buckman on the left wing, replacing Tevita Li ‑ a change he has used before against the Crusaders.
The other change to the starting unit comes in the front row with Liam Coltman named at hooker over co‑captain Ash Dixon.
Waisake Naholo has also been named to start for the Highlanders.
Tomorrow, the eight time champions, the Crusaders will host the Highlanders at 7.35pm while the Reds will host the Rebels at 9.45pm.
The Chiefs will host the Brumbies at 5.15pm this Saturday, the Hurricanes will face the Blues at 7.35pm while the Waratahs will host the Sunwolves at 9.45pm.
On Sunday, the Bulls will take on the Jaguares at 1.05am while the Stormers will take on the Sharks at 3.15am.
Highlanders: Ben Smith (co‑captain), Waisake Naholo, Rob Thompson, Tei Walden, Richard Buckman, Lima Sopoaga, Aaron Smith, Luke Whitelock, James Lentjes, Elliot Dixon/Liam Squire, Tom Franklin, Jackson Hemopo, Siate Tokolahi, Liam Coltman, Daniel Lienert‑Brown.
Reserves: Ash Dixon, Aki Seiuli, Tyrel Lomax, Pari Pari Parkinson, Shannon Frizell, Kayne Hammington, Josh Ioane, Fletcher Smith.
[Source: One News]
SPONSORED
