Josh Dickson and Pari Pari Parkinson return to bolster the pack and the in-form Hugh Renton will get his third start at the back of the scrum.
Leni Apisai gets a start at hooker for the injured Andrew Makalio while Saula Ma’u, Will Tucker and James Lentjes all return from injury to take their place on the bench.
The same backline will run out following an improved effort last week when the Highlanders notched their first win of the season against the Force.
Argentine international Martin Bogado was in the thick of everything against the Force and will be keen for further opportunities against the Drua under the roof in Dunedin.
Youngster Jake Te Hiwi, who had a good first outing against the Chiefs in round three, will get another opportunity from the bench.
Coach Clarke Dermody said he was delighted to be back home at Forsyth Barr Stadium.
"It was good to get a win in front of a supportive crowd in Invercargill last weekend and the guys are excited to get back out under the roof and put on a good performance against a dangerous Drua side on Saturday."
This Saturday’s game will be the first time the Fijian Drua have played the Highlanders at Forsyth Barr Stadium and only the second time the two teams have met.
Highlanders v Fijian Drua – 4:35pm, Saturday 25th March, Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin
1. Ethan de Groot
2. Leni Apisai
3. Jermaine Ainsley
4. Pari Pari Parkinson
5. Josh Dickson
6. Sean Withy
7. Billy Harmon (C)
8. Hugh Renton
9. Aaron Smith
10. Mitch Hunt
11. Jonah Lowe
12. Thomas Umaga-Jensen
13. Josh Timu
14. Martin Bogado
15. Sam Gilbert
Reserves: 16. Jack Taylor 17. Daniel Lienert-Brown 18. Saula Ma’u 19. Will Tucker 20. James Lentjes 21.Folau Fakatava 22. Cameron Millar 23. Jake Te Hiwi
