Aaron Smith is set to become the fifth Highlander to play 100 games.
The halfback, who began with the Highlanders in 2011, will start in the No 9 jersey when the side plays the Rebels at Forsyth Barr Stadium on Friday night.
He will play inside Marty Banks, who comes into the line-up for Fletcher Smith.
The only other change in the backs sees Tevita Li return on the right wing in place of youngster Sio Tomkinson.
In the forwards Aki Seiuli comes in for Dan Lienert- Brown at loosehead prop, while Joe Wheeler starts ahead of Alex Ainley at lock.
Gareth Evans replaces Elliot Dixon in the looseforwards.
Highlanders team to play the Rebels at Forsyth Barr Stadium at 7.35pm on Friday:
Aki Seiuli, Liam Coltman, Siate Tokolahi, Joe Wheeler, Tom Franklin, Gareth Evans, Dillon Hunt, Luke Whitelock, Aaron Smith, Marty Banks, Patrick Osborne, Richard Buckman, Malakai Fekitoa, Tevita Li, Ben Smith (c).
Reserves: Greg Pleasants-Tate, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Siosuia Halanukonuka, Elliot Dixon, Tupou Sopoaga, Kayne Hammington, Fletcher Smith, Matt Faddes