Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph has made six changes to his run-on side for Friday’s Super Rugby match against the Reds in Brisbane.
Three of the changes are in the forwards, with All Blacks hooker Andrew Hore, England flanker James Haskell and lock Josh Bekhuis coming in.
At halfback, incumbent Test halfback Aaron Smith makes way for fellow All Black Jimmy Cowan.
Mike Delany gets the No.10 jersey in place of Chris Noakes, while Tamati Ellison’s hamstring injury in last week’s 27-21 loss to the Chiefs means Siale Piutau will start at centre.
Highlanders: Ben Smith, Kade Poki, Siale Piutau, Phil Burleigh, Hosea Gear, Mike Delany, Jimmy Cowan, Nasi Manu, James Haskell, Adam Thomson, Nick Crosswell, Jock Bekhuis, Ma’afu Fia, Andrew Hore, Jamie Mackintosh (capt). Res: Jason Rutledge, Chris King, Jarrad Hoeata, Tim Boys, Aaron Smith, Chris Noakes, Kenny Lynn.