The Highlanders co-captain and fullback, Ben Smith will not feature in this week’s clash against the Sunwolves in Tokyo.
Smith remained in New Zealand while the rest of the squad departed for Dunedin yesterday.
This marks Smith’s second and final All Blacks enforced rest week which means he will be able to recharge at home ahead of the Highlanders home clash with the Chiefs next week.
The Sunwolves will not be an easy team to beat as they nearly defeated the Hurricanes last Friday, and they have already beaten the Chiefs and the Waratahs this season.
Matt Faddes and Josh McKay, will be the fullback options but everything will be revealed when they name their side on Wednesday.
The Highlanders will face the Sunwolves at 10pm Friday while the Crusaders will take on the Lions at 7.35pm Friday.
On Saturday, the Chiefs will take on the Hurricanes at 7.35pm while the Waratahs will host the Sharks at Western Sydney Stadium at 9.45pm.
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