Coach Glenn Moore has introduced the three fresh players both to spell others who have had high workloads and to refresh a side that has been close but not good enough in the opening rounds.
Bancroft, the second-year player who has been sidelined with an eye injury, will earn his ninth cap as a replacement for Johnny Leota.
‘‘Aaron is obviously really keen to get out there, and it's important for us that a guy like him gets an opportunity to play,'' Moore said yesterday.
‘‘He's a different player to Johnny in some respects. But this isn't because we're dissatisfied with Johnny. We recognise these guys can not play every game. It's important they get the odd spell, and we have other guys given a chance to make sure they're ready.''
For much the same reason, King gets his first start in the front row, with impressive draft prop Clint Newland given the week off.
‘‘Clint has played the bulk of the time till now and we have to make sure we keep someone like him in good condition,'' Moore said.
‘‘He's in an area where I don't believe everyone can play every game. This is an opportunity to give him a spell, and an opportunity to get Chris involved.''
MacDonald's elevation, in place of Isaac Ross, is more based on form. The skilled Southland lock played superbly off the bench in the 10-6 loss to the Hurricanes, and his experience will be vital against a Force line-out marshalled by the crafty Nathan Sharpe.
Flanker Alando Soakai has not quite recovered from his hamstring tear, so Tim Boys remains on the open-side.
Moore confirmed he is seeking replacements for No 8 Ezra Taylor and winger Lucky Mulipola, both of who are out for the season with injury.
The Highlanders travel to Queenstown this morning. They have a skills session with local players this afternoon and a light training at the Events Centre tomorrow.
