Super Rugby: Highlanders make huge changes in their lineup for the upcoming clash against the Crusaders
Highlanders have announced huge alterations in their line for their next clash of the Super Rugby competition against the Crusaders. Highlanders coach, Jamie Joseph, disclosed his 22 member squad with six changes in the morning, today. The coach announced
that his side would go in Nelson’s fixture without veteran flanker, Adam Thomson, on Saturday, 23rd April, 2011.
Joseph told the reporters that a large number of changes have been made because it is a crucial match against the Christchurch based derby, Crusaders. The coach described the Adam Thomson’s injury as severe blow to his side.
He revealed that Thomson was having a smooth season and he contributed a lot to his team’s six victories in the current Super Rugby championship.
The coach said that defender Tom Donnelly has been included to the playing 15 and Jarrad Hoeata would be applied to blindside, replacing injured Alando Soakai. Joseph rested the hooker, Jason Rutledge, and included Mo Schwalger on that position.
Among other changes, Robbie Robinson has been given the duties of fullback as Ben Smith has been appointed to 12th position.
Some new faces have been comprised to the reserve line as Tim Boy and Matt Saunders will make their first appearance to the Highlanders’ bench squad.
The Highlanders have been placed on 5th overall position on the point’s tables and third among the other New Zealand teams. They have grabbed six victories after eight outgoings in the ongoing Super Rugby championship.
They look quite confident after the last weekend’s big win against the Melbourne Rebels. Jamie Mackintosh, the skipper of the side, has great confidence in his unit and is hopeful of carrying the day against the home top seed Crusaders on Saturday in Nelson.
The 22 member squad consisted of Jamie Mackintosh the skipper and the following other players:
Ben Smith who is expected to fulfil the vacuum created by Adam Thomson, Siale Piutau, Tony Brown, Aaron Smith, Nasi Manu, Robbie Robinson one of the senior campaigner of the side, James Paterson, Kendrick Lynn, Rutledge, David Te Moana, Nick Crosswell, Tim
Boys, Sean Romans, Matt Saunders, and Telusa Veainu
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