Highlanders announce squad for first hit out of 2026

The Highlanders will kick off their 2026 preseason with a highly anticipated clash against the champion Crusaders at Fraser Park, Timaru, this Friday at 3.30pm.

A 31‑player squad has been confirmed for the annual preseason fixture, which will be contested over four 20‑minute quarters. Loose forward Will Stodart will lead the side in the opening spell.

The match will feature the debut of Argentinian international lock Tomás Lavanini, who joins the Highlanders for the 2026 campaign. Supporters will also be eager to see the explosive Stanley Solomon in action, alongside speedsters Xavier Tito‑Harris and Caleb Tangitau, who will combine as a dynamic back three in the first quarter.

The second half will see Australian playmaker, Reesjan Pasitoa, take control in the No.10 jersey, with last season’s first‑five, Taine Robinson, shifting to fullback. Up front, former Blues and All Blacks prop Angus Ta’avao will anchor the scrum, packing down alongside hooker Jack Taylor, who will captain the side in the second half.

The match will be refereed by Paul Williams and is officially sold out with a livestream available on the Crusaders Youtube channel. 

Highlanders Squad

First 40 Team

1. Josh Bartlett
2. Soane Vikena
3. Sefo Kautai
4. Tai Cribb
5. Tomas Lavanini
6. Oliver Haig
7. Lucas Casey
8. Will Stodart (C)
9. Adam Lennox 
10. Cameron Millar 
11. Xavier Tito-Harris 
12. Meihana Grindlay
13. Tanielu Tele'a
14. Caleb Tangitau
15. Stanley Solomon

Second 40 Team

1. Rohan Wingham
2. Jack Taylor (C)
3. Angus Ta'avao
4. Josh Tengblad
5. Tai Cribb
6. Te Kamaka Howden
7. Veveni Lasaqa
8. Nikora Broughton
9. Nic Shearer
10. Reesjan Pasitoa
11. Josh Whaanga
12. Tayne Harvey
13. Jonah Lowe
14. Stanley Solomon
15. Taine Robinson
16. Henry Bell 

ENDS