Rugby: Highlanders team to play Crusaders

Highlanders co-captain Ben Smith
Highlanders co-captain Ben Smith
The Highlanders have gone with the tried and true in their opening match against the Crusaders on Saturday.

Nasi Manu and Ben Smith will co-captain the side with John Hardie getting a run on the openside as Shane Christie has not recovered from a strained hamstring.

Including reserves, seven players could make their debuts for the Highlanders on Saturday night.

Meanwhile, the Crusaders will welcome back Israel Dagg at fullback for the match, with Colin Slade moving to first five-eighth.

Dominic Bird is dropped to the bench as youngster Scott Barrett gets a start for the red and blacks. 

Highlanders: Ben Smith (co-captain), Waisake Naholo, Malakai Fekitoa, Shaun Treeby, Patrick Osborne, Lima Sopoaga, Aaron Smith, Nasi Manu (co-captain), John Hardie, Elliot Dixon, Joe Wheeler, Tom Franklin, Josh Hohneck, Liam Coltman, Ross Geldenhuys. Reserves: Ash Dixon, Kane Hames, Ma'afu Fia, Mark Reddish, Dan Pryor, Fumaki Tanaka, Jason Emery, Marty Banks.

Crusaders: Israel Dagg, Robbie Fruean, Kieron Fonotia, Ryan Crotty, Johnny McNicholl, Colin Slade, Mitchell Drummond, Luke Whitelock, Matt Todd (captain), Richie McCaw, Scott Barett, Luke Romano, Owen Franks, Ben Funnell, Wyatt Crockett. Reserves: Codie Taylor, Joe Moody, Nepo Laulala, Dominic Bird, Jordan Taufua, Billy Guyton, Tom Taylor, Nafi Tuitavake.

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