Explosive loose forward TJ Ioane hasn’t recovered from injury in time to be named in the Highlanders’ squad for a two-game Super Rugby tour of South Africa.

A calf strain sidelined Ioane from the Highlanders’ two home wins over the Rebels and Bulls and he wasn’t deemed ready for the tour, where they will face the competition-leading Sharks and the Stormers.

Also missing from the 27-strong squad is veteran lock Brad Thorn, who suffered a season-ending bicep injury against the Bulls on Friday.

Lock Tom Franklin, prop Matais Diaz, flyhalf Willie Ripia, centre Winston Stanley and halfback Frae Wilson have also missed selection, along with wing Kurt Baker, who is serving a six-match suspension.

The Highlanders, who have climbed to sixth place, leave on Friday for the round 11 and 12 games.

HIGHLANDERS SQUAD:

Backs: Ben Smith, Trent Renata, Richard Buckman, Patrick Osborne, Malakai Fekitoa, Jason Emery, Shaun Treeby, Phil Burleigh, Lima Sopoaga, Hayden Parker, Aaron Smith, Fumiaki Tanaka

Forwards: Nasi Manu, Elliot Dixon, Shane Christie, John Hardie, Gareth Evans, Jarrad Hoeata, Joe Wheeler, Josh Bekhuis, Chris King, Maafu Fia, Kane Hames, Craig Millar, Liam Coltman, Ged Robinson, Brayden Mitchell