The Highlanders have given Kayne Hammington and Matt Faddes the job of replacing All Blacks Aaron Smith and Waisake Naholo for the clash against the Hurricanes this Friday.
Hammington's experience has won him the No 9 jersey as the Highlanders try to overcome a trio of injuries to Smith, Naholo and Liam Squire and get their Super Rugby campaign back on track.
Faddes is a straight swap for Naholo on the right wing while Rob Thompson, who hasn't played since the round two win against the Reds, starts on the bench.
Richard Buckman will wear the No 13 jersey while Marty Banks has been handed the No 10 jersey ahead of Josh Ioane, who starts on the bench.
The Highlanders meet the Hurricanes at 6.35pm Friday and the Stormers meet the Reds at 9pm Friday.
On Saturday, the Crusaders meet the Brumbies at 4.15pm while the Rebels meet the Sunwolves at 8.45pm.
Highlanders: Ben Smith (c), Matt Faddes, Richard Buckman, Teihorangi Walden, Tevita Li, Marty Banks, Kayne Hammington, Luke Whitelock (vc), James Lentjes, Shannon Frizell, Tom Franklin, Josh Dickson, Tyrel Lomax, Liam Coltman, Ayden Johnstone.
Replacements: Ash Dixon, Daniel Lienert‑Brown, Siate Tokolahi, Jackson Hemopo, Elliot Dixon, Folau Fakatava, Josh Ioane, Rob Thompson
[Source: Stuff]
ADVERTISEMENT
