Otago flanker Hugh Tait has flown to South Africa to boost the Highlanders’ loose forward stocks ahead of their Super Rugby match against the Southern Kings in Port Elizabeth.
With openside backup Tim Boys battling niggles and impressive blindside TJ Ioane in doubt for the match on Sunday (AEST), coach Jamie Joseph has moved to provide cover.
Tait will make his Super Rugby debut if required.
Former All Blacks No.8 Mose Tuiali’i is available again after missing the last two games with injury, including last week’s narrow win over the Sharks in Dunedin, the first success of the season for the last-placed Highlanders.
Ioane, who his impressed in recent weeks with his powerful runs, was forced off against the Sharks with a calf niggle and remains in doubt.
Joseph will need to make at least one change from last week, with utility back Phil Burleigh not selected in the 25-man tour squad due to a shoulder knock.
The Highlanders will name their team on Friday (AEST) for the match which pits the bottom two placed teams against each other.