Co-captain Nasi Manu and All Black centre Malakai Fekitoa have both been named in the starting XV.
Manu, the workhorse No 8, makes a timely return from the shoulder injury that has sidelined him in recent weeks.
Versatile loose forward Dan Pryor, who has played in all three back-row positions this season, moves to the openside flank to replace the injured John Hardie.
Fekitoa has been struggling with a groin injury but returns for the playoff game to reunite with an explosive backline.
Veteran lock Mark Reddish also makes a timely return from injury to bolster the pack, while Brendon Edmonds replaces Daniel Lienert-Brown at loosehead prop.
Highlanders: Ben Smith (co-captain). Waisake Naholo, Malakai Fekitoa, Richard Buckman, Patrick Osborne, Lima Sopoaga, Aaron Smith, Nasi Manu (co-captain), Dan Pryor, Elliot Dixon, Mark Reddish, Alex Ainley, Josh Hohneck, Liam Coltman, Brendon Edmonds. Reserves: Ash Dixon, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Ross Geldenhuys, Joe Latta, Gareth Evans, Fumiaki Tanaka, Marty Banks, Shaun Treeby.
