A huge boost for the Highlanders as they embark on their tough Super Rugby playoff journey.
After their defeat at the hands of the Crusaders, the southerners are now en-route to Durban to face the Sharks in week one of the playoffs next weekend.
All Blacks fullback Ben Smith missed the match due to a leg infection, but Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph expects him to be ready this Sunday.
The Crusaders are also expecting Richie McCaw to return from a rib injury next week.
Meanwhile, the Chiefs win over the Blues secured them a playoff against the ACT Brumbies in Canberra.
The winners of the qualifiers progress to the semifinals against the second placed Crusaders in Christchurch or the top qualifiers the Waratahs in Sydney.
This Saturday the Brumbies host the Chiefs at 9.40pm in the first playoff match while the Sharks meet the Highlanders at 3.05am Sunday.
