With just three rounds remaining in the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, both teams will be desperate to take the points at Forsyth Barr Stadium on Saturday.
The Waratahs arrive at Forsyth Barr Stadium on the back of consecutive losses to the Crusaders and Force, a slide they will be desperate to halt.
The Highlanders return from Fiji without the result they needed and will be targeting their final home match of the regular season as a must-win opportunity.
Head Coach Jamie Joseph has been clear that opportunities must be taken, and the team’s strike weapons need early involvement.
A key part of that plan is returning winger Caleb Tangitau, whose power and finishing ability remain central to the Highlanders’ attacking identity.
Alongside him, in a notable positional shift, sees Jona Nareki move from the wing into the midfield at centre.
The mercurial playmaker’s footwork, vision, and ability to beat defenders in tight channels could add a new dimension to the Highlanders’ attack.
Joseph will be hoping that creativity, speed, and improved decision-making translate into scoreboard pressure and that the try-scoring chances created are finally capitalised on.
Tomás Lavanini gets another start in the middle row pushing Oliver Haig to the reserves, while Lucas Casey will start following strong form off the bench last week and will be eager to cement a starting position with a strong showing in front of the Highlanders home crowd. Henry Bell returns to the reserves bench in a largely unchanged group of impacts.
This weekend at Forsyth Barr Stadium will be the Highlanders Annual Kids Day with a family-friendly kick-off time of 4:35pm, Kids Free thanks to Highlanders partner Delivereasy, the annual SBS Junior Club Race, and fans will be able to come onto the pitch at the end of the game to meet the players.
Highlanders v NSW Waratahs – 4:35pm Saturday May 9 , Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin
Highlanders starting XV
Ethan de Groot (cc), Jack Taylor, Angus Ta’avao, Tomás Lavanini, Mitch Dunshea, Te Kamaka Howden, Lucas Casey, Nikora Broughton, Adam Lennox, Cameron Millar, Jonah Lowe, Timoci Tavatavanawai (cc), Jona Nareki, Caleb Tangitau, Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens
Impact: Soane Vikena, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Saula Ma’u, Oliver Haig, Sean Withy, Nic Shearer, Taine Robinson, Xavier Tito-Harris
- Allied Media
