Shannon Frizell will get his first decent shot at restating his All Blacks credentials after being named in the Highlanders team for their Super Rugby match against the Brumbies in Canberra.
The powerful back-rower is among the three starting changes from the side that was well beaten 42-20 by the Sharks in Dunedin last week.
The 26-year old is a powerful ball carrier who has bagged nine caps, including four at last year's World Cup.
New All Blacks coach, Ian Foster this week announced his desire for some sizeable loose forwards to put their hands up following the departure of former captain Kieran Read.
Openside specialists Ardie Savea and Sam Cane are proven Test back rowers but a host of new contenders could be on the radar, including impressive young Highlanders No.8 Marino Mikaele Tu'u.
Frizell replaces Dillon Hunt while Jesse Parete replaces injured lock Pari Pari Parkinson, and Sio Tomkinson usurps rookie Tima Fainga'anuku on the wing.
The Crusaders will take on the Blues at 6.05 tonight while the Rebels will face the Waratahs at 8.15 tonight.
The Sunwolves will play the Chiefs at 3.45pm tomorrow, Hurricanes will face the Sharks at 6.05pm tomorrow and the Brumbies will take on the Highlanders at 8.15pm tomorrow.
[Source: TVNZ
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