It was one of three changes the team has made for its match at Forsyth Barr Stadium.
That sees Greg Pleasants-Tate move onto the bench.
Powerful Fijian winger Tevita Nabura comes into the side on the left wing, while Tasman loose forward Shannon Frizell and Otago halfback Josh Renton claim spots in the reserves.
It will be Nabura's debut, as it will be for Frizell should he take the field.
The remainder of the side remains unchanged from the side that won the last game 41-34 against the Blues.
Highlanders to play the Stormers:
Ben Smith, Waisake Naholo, Rob Thompson, Tei Walden, Tevita Nabura, Lima Sopoaga, Aaron Smith, Luke Whitelock, Dillon Hunt, Liam Squire, Tom Franklin, Jackson Hemopo, Siate Tokolahi, Liam Coltman, Daniel Lienert-Brown. Reserves: Greg Pleasants-Tate, Aki Seiuli, Tyrel Lomax, Shannon Frizell, Elliot Dixon, Josh Renton, Fletcher Smith, Matt Faddes.