The Pulse Energy Highlanders squad to contest the 2017 Investec Super Rugby Competition has been announced. The team includes five players new to the squad as well as fulltime professional contracts for Fletcher Smith and Aki Seiuli who joined the Highlanders in 2016 as injury replacements.

The team features 33 players returning from 2016 which will provide experience and continuity for new head coach Tony Brown. “It’s always an exciting day when you name a squad and particularly for me given it’s my first year as Head Coach. I think the balance of the squad is good we have a number of experienced players returning but also some exciting young players who haven’t had a lot of Super Rugby game time that will get an opportunity to have a crack”.

New signings Tevita Li (Blues) , Kayne Hammington and Siate Tokolahi (Chiefs) and prop Guy Millar (Western Force) will join young Otago lock Josh Dickson in their debut season for the Highlanders in 2017.

The team welcomes back Richard Buckman, Hayden Parker and Josh Renton from long-term injuries sustained in 2016 however prop Brendon Edmonds was ruled out of selection as he is yet to recover fully from his knee injury.

The 2017 Pulse Energy Highlanders

Forwards

Liam Coltman, Ash Dixon, Greg Pleasants-Tate, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Siosuia Halanukonuka, Guy Millar*, Siate Tokolahi*, Aki Seiuli, Craig Millar, Tom Franklin, Joe Wheeler, Alex Ainley, Josh Dickson*, Jackson Hemopo, Luke Whitelock, Liam Squire, James Lentjes, Gareth Evans, Dan Pryor, Shane Christie, Elliot Dixon

Backs

Aaron Smith, Kayne Hammington*, Josh Renton, Lima Sopoaga, Hayden Parker, Fletcher Smith, Rob Thompson, Patelesio Tomkinson, Teihorangi Walden, Richard Buckman, Matt Faddes, Waisake Naholo, Malakai Fekitoa, Patrick Osborne, Tevita Li*, Jason Emery , Ben Smith

*Debut season for Highlanders in 2017

2017 Pulse Energy Highlanders Team Guide

ENDS