All Blacks Tony Woodcock, Ma’a Nonu and Aaron Smith have been included in the Highlanders’ starting 15 for their pre-season Super Rugby match against the Crusaders in Oamaru on Friday.

The inclusion of prop Woodcock and midfield back Nonu, both recruited from the Blues, and Smith are among changes from the side beaten by the Chiefs in Taupo last weekend.

In the forwards, Brayden Mitchell will start at hooker and Jarrad Hoeata moves to lock alongside former All Black Brad Thorn.

Joe Wheeler switches from lock to blindside flanker, while openside flanker John Hardie returns after a long injury break.

In the backs, winger Kade Poki is another addition to the starting 15.

Highlanders team (15-1): Buxton Popoalii, Kade Poki, Phil Burleigh, Ma’a Nonu, Hosea Gear (capt), Lima Sopoaga, Aaron Smith, Elliot Dixon, John Hardie, Joe Wheeler, Jarrad Hoeata, Brad Thorn, Ma’afu Fia, Brayden Mitchell, Tony Woodcock. Res: Jason Emery, Hayden Parker, Fumiaki Tanaka, Shaun Treeby, Frae Wilson, Hugh Blake, Liam Coltman, Tom Franklin, Paul Grant, Jamie Mackintosh, Bronson Murray.