For the first time in more than two years, the Highlanders will be without Ben Smith.
The All Blacks fullback has been ruled out of Saturday's final round Super Rugby match against the Crusaders, having spent three days in a Sydney hospital with a leg infection.
Coach Jamie Joseph says Smith is still on antibiotics from the graze that got infected.
Smith has played every game for the past two seasons.
Coach Jamie Joseph says they needed to make the decision as quickly as possible, and Trent Renata will start at fullback.
The Crusaders will face the Highlanders at 7.35pm this Saturday.
