The Highlanders have a heavy task of defending their home ground against the Crusaders as they have won every game at home in the past two seasons and must keep that record intact tonight.
Highlanders Coach Aaron Mauger says they are focusing on a few small details in the team adding they will need to be ruthless against the Crusaders.
He says its going to be a challenge for them in the next 6 games as they will be going up against teams from the New Zealand Conference.
Mauger says the team is expecting to face their toughest match tonight.
Highlanders will face the Crusaders at 6.35pm,
Sunwolves will go up against Reds at 4.15pm while Rebels will play Lions at 1.05am tomorrow.
Highlanders: Ben Smith (co‑captain), Waisake Naholo, Sio Tomkinson, Tei Walden, Richard Buckman, Josh Ioane, Aaron Smith, Luke Whitelock (co‑captain), James Lentjes, Shannon Frizell, Jack Whetton, Josh Dickson, Tyrel Lomax, Liam Coltman, Ayden Johnstone. Reserves: Ash Dixon, Daniel Lienert‑Brown, Siate Tokolahi, Tom Franklin, Elliot Dixon, Dillon Hunt, Folau Fakatava, Marty Banks.
Crusaders: David Havili, Braydon Ennor, Jack Goodhue, Ryan Crotty, George Bridge, Richie Mo’unga, Bryn Hall, Whetu Douglas, Matt Todd, Jordan Taufua, Sam Whitelock (captain), Scott Barrett, Owen Franks, Codie Taylor, Giorgio Bower. Reserves: Andrew Makalio, Harry Allan, Michael Alaalatoa, Quinten Strange, Tom Sanders, Ereatara Enari, Brett Cameron, Will Jordan.
Referee: Brendon Pickerell (North Harbour)
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