Become a member to join in Australia's biggest sporting debate, submit articles, receive updates straight to your inbox and keep up with your favourite teams and authors.
The challenges don’t get any easier for Moana Pasifika as Aaron Mauger faces his former side, the Highlanders, who are starting to find some form. Join The Roar for live score coverage from 5.05pm AEDT.
Moana Pasifika will be without their captain and playmaker Christian Lealiifano who has been ruled out with a neck injury. He will be replaced by Lincoln McClutchie in the No.10 jersey.
Moana Pasifika are still on the hunt for their first win.
The Highlanders, who have had a horrid injury toll to start the year, are bolstered by the return of All Blacks back-rower Shannon Frizell and fellow loose forward Marino Mikaele Tu’u. Both men will be injected in the second half.
Connor Garden-Bachop starts on the wing while Thomas Umaga-Jensen remains a key player in the midfield.
Mitch Hunt once again partners All Blacks star Aaron Smith in the halves.
Game information
Venue: Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland Kick-off: 5.05pm (AEDT) Streaming: Stan Sport Betting: Moana Pasifika $5.25, Highlanders $1.16 – odds via PlayUp
Advertisement
Teams
Moana Pasifika (1-15): Ezekiel Lindenmuth, Samiuela Moli, Suetena Asomua, Mitchael Curry, Samuel Slade, Miracle Faiilagi, Alamanda Motuga, Solomone Funaki (c), Ere Enari, Lincoln McClutchie, Neria Fomai, Danny Toala, Levi Aumua, Timoci Tavatavanawai, William Havili.
Replacements: Luteru Tolai, Abraham Pole, Joe ‘Apikotoa, Mike McKee, Jonah Mau’u, Manu Paea, D’Angelo Leuila, Fine Inisi.
Highlanders (1-15): Ethan de Groot, Leni Apisai, Jermaine Ainsley, Pari Pari Parkinson, Will Tucker, Sean Withy, Billy Harmon (c), Hugh Renton, Aaron Smith, Mitch Hunt, Jonah Lowe, Thomas Umaga-Jensen, Fetuli Paea, Connor Garden -Bachop, Sam Gilbert.
