Pulse Energy Highlanders to play the Hurricanes

Details April 3, 2019

This week in Investec Super Rugby, round eight action will see the Pulse Energy Highlanders run out under the roof for just the second time this year against the Hurricanes.

As with all New Zealand conference matches the result will be important with both teams coming off losses in the previous round.

The Hurricanes will bring plenty of razzle dazzle with threats such as the brothers Barrett, Ben Lam and Ngani Laumape in the backline and a workman-like-pack.

Head Coach, Aaron Mauger, has named an experienced side with 74-game veteran lock, Tom Franklin, gaining his second run on start for the season and Marty Banks again will steer the ship at 10. An injury to Waisake Naholo gives speedster and local crowd favourite Matt Faddes an opportunity to display his skills. A strong bench, including All Blacks Elliot Dixon and Jackson Hemopo, features the exciting, young halfback Folau Fakatava and midfielder Rob Thompson, who is back after a six-week injury layoff.

Pulse Energy Highlanders to play the Hurricanes – 7.35pm, Friday 5th Apr, Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin

Ayden Johnstone Liam Coltman Tyrel Lomax Josh Dickson Tom Franklin Shannon Frizell James Lentjes Luke Whitelock (cc) Kayne Hammington Marty Banks Tevita Li Teihorangi Walden Richard Buckman Matt Faddes Ben Smith (cc)

RESERVES

Ash Dixon Daniel Lienert-Brown Siate Tokolahi Jackson Hemopo Elliot Dixon Folau Fakatava Josh Ioane Rob Thompson

Unavailable due to injury: Liam Squire (knee), Waisake Naholo (knee), Aaron Smith (ankle)

END