The All Blacks 'rest weeks' have struck again.
With their season hanging in the balance, the struggling Highlanders have revealed that All Blacks Aaron Smith and Liam Coltman have returned to New Zealand and will miss the crucial game against the Jaguares in Argentina on Sunday.
Hooker Ash Dixon is set to captain the side in the No 2 jersey.
Wing Jona Nareki, lock Jesse Parete and prop Ayden Johnstone picked up injuries in the loss to the Bulls at the weekend and will also miss the Jaguares game.
Captain James Lentjes has already been ruled out for the rest of the season and the Highlanders were already missing Pari Pari Parkinson, Rob Thompson, Tevita Nabura and Thomas Umaga-Jensen.
The Highlanders have blooded debutants in every game they have played so far this season and that will continue this weekend, with Southland prop De Groot, Otago openside Slade McDowall and young lock Will Tucker in line all a chance to get some game time.
However, Smith and Coltman are irreplaceable because of their experience and the decision to rest them will again put the heat on the All Blacks 'rest weeks' policy.
Highlanders attack coach Tony Brown has already expressed his unease at All Blacks rest weeks.
[Source:Stuff.co]
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