HIGHLANDERS NAME SIDE FOR WAITANGI DAY CLASH AGAINST THE CRUSADERS IN INVERCARGILL

The stage is set for a thrilling Super Rugby showdown this Waitangi Day as the Highlanders face off against the Crusaders at Rugby Park in Invercargill (2.30pm, Thursday 6^th February). The match promises to be a celebration of top-tier rugby, showcasing the fierce Southern rivals with both teams looking to set up their season with a solid hit-out prior to their respective first round encounters.

As New Zealand comes together to commemorate Waitangi Day, Southern rugby fans are in for a rugby treat as the Highlanders welcome the mighty Crusaders to Rugby Park Invercargill.  Both teams have a rich history in New Zealand rugby, and with the rivalry between them heating up year after year, fans can expect nothing less than a high-intensity match.

The Highlanders will be in the city on from the Wednesday doing a number of schools visits and attending a luncheon supported by Bayleys Real Estate. Tickets for the event are selling well and can be purchased online from Ticketek.co.nz.

The Highlanders have announced a strong side to meet their arch rivals with All Black, Ethan de Groot, getting a starting spot in a strong looking forward pack. Hugh Renton will co-captain the side from number eight while his co-skipper Timoci Tavatavanawai will start in the midfield rather than his usual wing spot. As this is the last warm up match the Highlanders are expecting a strong Crusaders lineup including many of their All Blacks.

“We’re incredibly excited to round out our preseason with such an exciting encounter on Waitangi Day,” said Highlanders Head Coach, Jamie Joseph. “Playing against the Crusaders is always a massive challenge, but it’s one our players are ready for. We know the fans in Invercargill will create an electric atmosphere, and we’re looking forward to delivering a great performance.”

Highlanders v Crusaders – 2:30pm, Thursday 6^th February, Rugby Park Stadium, Invercargill

1. Ethan de Groot
2. Soane Vikena
3. Saula Mau
4. Fabian Holland
5. Mitchell Dunshea
6. TK Howden
7. Veveni Lasaqa
8. Hugh Renton (CC)
9. Folau Fakatava
10. Cameron Millar
11. Jona Nareki
12. Timoci Tavatavanawai (CC)
13. Tanielu Tele’a
14. Caleb Tangitau
15. Sam Gilbert

IMPACT

Henry Bell, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Sosefo Kautai, JoshTengblad, Lui Naeata, Sean Withy, Nikora Broughton, Nathan Hastie, Taine Robinson, Jake Te Hiwi, Michael Manson, Finn Hurley.