Dixon to captain Highlanders

All Black Elliot Dixon has got a start and will also wear the captain's armband in the match against the Crusaders on Saturday.

The Highlanders released their team to take on the Crusaders today and Dixon comes into the starting side at blindside flanker in place of Gareth Evans.

Richard Buckman replaces the concussed Ben Smith at fullback, while up front prop Siosuia Halanukonuka replaces Siate Tokolahiat tighthead prop.

The match starts at Forsyth Barr Stadium at 7.35pm on Saturday.

Highlanders: Richard Buckman, Waisake Naholo, Malakai Fekitoa, Rob Thompson, Tevita Li, Lima Sopoaga, Aaron Smith, Liam Squire, James Lentjes, Elliot Dixon (captain), Tom Franklin, Alex Ainley, Siosuia Halanukonuka, Liam Coltman, Daniel Lienert-Brown.

Reserves: Adrian Smith, Craig Millar, Siate Tokolahi, Joe Wheeler, Gareth Evans, Kayne Hammington, Fletcher Smith,  Patrick Osborne.