The Highlanders are preparing to end a multi-year losing streak against New Zealand teams, with a promising young back row selected to face the formidable Crusaders. However, the task ahead will not be easy, as the Crusaders boast multiple All Blacks and a strong record, having won nine out of their last 10 encounters against the Highlanders. The last victory for the Highlanders against the Crusaders occurred in 2021, with a score of 33-12.
Captain Billy Harmon will miss the match due to a hand injury sustained during the game against Moana Pasifika in Tonga. As a result, Sean Withy will start at openside, accompanied by Oliver Haig on the blindside. The talented loose forward Nikora Broughton completes the young trio at No.8.
In other team news, Cam Miller will take the helm at first five-eighth, partnering with Folau Fakatava, while Jake Te Hiwi and Tanielu Tele’a will form the midfield duo. Head coach Clarke Dermody has expressed confidence in Miller’s leadership, especially after his impressive performance when filling in for the injured Harmon.
Unfortunately, Connor Garden-Bachop will be sidelined due to HIA protocols. On a more positive note, former New Zealand U20 fullback Finn Hurley has been named on the bench for the upcoming match.
Dermody has emphasized the significance of the impending game, highlighting the importance of earning every point at this crucial stage of the season. He has stressed, “We’re at the business end of the season and this game is important, not just because of the history tied to the rivalry, but also because every point counts towards the end of the season.”
The Highlanders lineup to face the Crusaders is as follows:
1. Ethan de Groot
2. Henry Bell
3. Jermaine Ainsley
4. Mitch Dunshea
5. Fabian Holland
6. Oliver Haig
7. Sean Withy
8. Nikora Broughton
9. Folau Fakatava
10. Cameron Millar
11. Martín Bogado
12. Jake Te Hiwi
13. Tanielu Tele’a
14. Timoci Tavatavanawai
15. Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens
Reserves:
16. Jack Taylor
17. Ayden Johnstone
18. Saula Ma’u
19. Will Tucker
20. Will Stodart
21. James Arscott
22. Sam Gilbert
23. Finn Hurley
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It is evident that the Highlanders are preparing for an action-packed showdown against the Crusaders, and fans can anticipate an exhilarating clash between these two rugby powerhouses.