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The Highlanders host Fijian Drua in a round five Super Rugby Pacific clash. Join The Roar for live scores from 2:35pm (AEDT).
Kemu Valetini, brother of Wallaby Rob, gets his first start of the season in the Drua’s No.10 jersey for the clash in Dunedin.
Kemu kicked the late penalty to seal the win over the Crusaders on home turf.
Coach Mick Byrne has freshened up the team with key changes.
Eroni Sau and Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta will miss this week’s match due to injury, while it’s the first run-on starts for winger Taniela Rakuro and Valetini.
Emosi Tuqiri is back in the starting 15 as loosehead prop. Leone Rotuisolia returns to partner Isoa Nasilasila while Joseva Tamani returns at blindside flanker after missing out last week.
Another change sees the familiar pairing of Kalaveti Ravouvou and Apisalome Vota start this week as inside and outside centres respectively.
The Highlanders welcome back six players from injury – Pari Pari Parkinson, Josh Dickson, Will Tucker, James Lentjes and Saula Ma’u while there is a potential debut for hooker Jack Taylor.
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Game information
Venue: Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin Kick-off: 2:35pm (AEDT) Streaming:Stan Sport Betting: Highlanders $1.28, Drua $3.70 – odds via PlayUp
Teams
Highlanders (1-15): Ethan de Groot, Leni Apisai, Jermaine Ainsley, Pari Pari Parkinson, Josh Dickson, Sean Withy, Billy Harmon, Hugh Renton, Aaron Smith, Mitch Hunt, Jonah Lowe, Thomas Umaga-Jensen, Josh Timu, Martin Bogado, Sam Gilbert.
Replacements: Jack Taylor, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Saula Ma’u, Will Tucker, James Lentjes, Folau Fakatava, Cameron Millar, Jake Te Hiwi.
